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

[DisneyDmbNut]

From the WL Vets to the Swan Sorority...Thanks!!!



Nasty peopel are just....well, NASTY!

 

[simonmunro]

My family and I have been staying at the Dolphin since 1993 or something like that. All our WDW memories begin here. My now grown son was a Camp Dolphin member back when it was a one time fee of $40.00 for unlimited use until you were like 12 years old or something. My point is, I read the posts here, learn new things that even I don't know and share with friends and family. Some days it just helps to read this thread, knowing there are other, normal, successful people that have the same bubbly feeling when they think of the Dolphin (and the inability to stop thinking about going there). It does belong on the resorts board. Even when I'm just reading because I miss the SWAN\DOLPHIN I pick up lots of RESORT INFORMATION. Dreamflight knows EVERYTHING there is to know about the place and if this moves how many viewers will just never know things????? I am begging whoever is in charge of this situation to please nurture and protect this thread. Maybe you could just say we're "grandfathered in" or something because we were this way for years!

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by simonmunro
My family and I have been staying at the Dolphin since 1993 or something like that. All our WDW memories begin here. My now grown son was a Camp Dolphin member back when it was a one time fee of $40.00 for unlimited use until you were like 12 years old or something. My point is, I read the posts here, learn new things that even I don't know and share with friends and family. Some days it just helps to read this thread, knowing there are other, normal, successful people that have the same bubbly feeling when they think of the Dolphin (and the inability to stop thinking about going there). It does belong on the resorts board. Even when I'm just reading because I miss the SWAN\DOLPHIN I pick up lots of RESORT INFORMATION. Dreamflight knows EVERYTHING there is to know about the place and if this moves how many viewers will just never know things????? I am begging whoever is in charge of this situation to please nurture and protect this thread. Maybe you could just say we're "grandfathered in" or something because we were this way for years!

SO Nice to see you! Thanks for your kind words... . I Get the same satisfaction you derive, just by logging on to check the "thread" and see if there is anyone I may possibly "help" today. Thank you, for sharing, and letting my know my humble contributions have helped you "stay connected" to a place you hold so dear to your heart. Your eloquent ("nurture & protect") professions have me choked~up. I do not want to be "evicted" either...and would be totally LOST on any other board. HOME...is where the RESORT BOARD is...and the resort board, is where THIS THREAD LIVES and THRIVES. Happy Valentine's day! From one hopeless DOLPHIN/SWAN/DISer~lover to another. :

TTFN...& nite~nite. DF99

 

[Fantasia Sam]

Hey DF99 and all you other Swolphin lovers

I have a question with regards beds at the Swolphin. My future BIL wants to find a hotel room that will provide him with 2 beds and a put me up or roll away - basically he is travelling with his two kids boy aged 16 and girl aged 11 and they don't want to share beds - I don't believe the moderates can help us and they don't want to pay for a Disney deluxe - but they do want to stay on property, can the Swolphin help?

Thanks in advance

 

[sarahsmom73]

I read this thread daily (Haven't posted until now) as we are headed for our first stay at the Dolphin! Just wanted to say thanks to all of you for all of your great info! Keep it up!

 

[crz4mm2]

I made it too!
So glad we are still here on Resorts. I have had many many questions answered by the good folks here. Have my mug in hand and will be there soon....
I did send a room request from the SD site. Did not get a response back. Is this the usual procedure?
Also got SPG preferred plus by being AAA member
Thanks so this thread (or the old one!).

Cathy

 

[Loubon]

Happy Valentine's Day to the Sigma Delta Sorority!

On it is ON TOPIC! Choose your pleasure....

<IMG width="250" SRC="http://www.swandolphin.com/images/explore/rooms_suites_exec3_lg.jpg"> <img width="250" SRC="http://www.swandolphin.com/images/explore/rooms_suites_exec1_lg.jpg">
<img width="250" SRC="http://www.swandolphin.com/images/explore/rooms_swan_bedroom4_lg.jpg">

<IMG width="250" SRC="http://www.yourmagicaljourneys.com/images/dolphin/dolphinpool2.jpg"> <IMG width="250" SRC="http://disney-swan-dolphin-hotel.visit-orlando-florida.com/disney-celebration.jpg">
<IMG width="250" SRC="http://www.kenwoodtravel.com/walt_disney_world/images/swananddolphinresorts05_rsdlpnphoto4zom.jpg"> <IMG width="250" SRC="http://www.kenwoodtravel.com/walt_disney_world/images/swananddolphinresorts06_rsdlpnphoto5zom.jpg">

 

[Trekker]

AH! Heading for the Dolphin on Apr 1 for a few days before cruisin' the Eastern Caribbean on the Magic - then back to the Dolphin for a few after.

DF99 - I've never stayed club level - just cannot bring myself to pay the difference.


This thread will stay as long as it is basically OT for resorts. The only problem I see at times is the name of the thread may confuse new posters. They expect to come hear to read JUST great tips and hints about the S&D, but get frustrated reading through 50 - 100 - 150 pages of general chat....

And BTW- cheeseheads rule!

 

[maggiew]

Loubon,
Are those first two pictures old rooms or are they the new renovated rooms? They look a little "busy" to me.

We found our room at the Dolphin (pre-renovation) to be just fine. But it didn't seem quite so busy.

When they renovated, did they get new furniture (like the dressers, etc.)? I thought the pineapples were really cute.

I also liked the clouds painted on the walls in the hallways. They matched the wall sconces that were little clouds. Will they redo these too? That was my favorite.

Maggie

 

[Loubon]

I'll have to defer to one of the receipiants (the true experts). I just took them from a web site.....

 

[jgates]

Swolphin! I love it!!! I am fairly sure (someone will correct me if I am wrong) that you can add a rollaway at most rooms at Swolphin - used to be a fee although that was waived frequently. The Swan has Queen size beds and the Dolphin has oversized doubles (unless that has changed with the remodel). Those oversized doubles were only about 2 inches smaller than a Q - definitely larger than a regular Dbl. You can fit a rollaway in but bear in mind it will then become crowded. I am guessing that both adults are going? Not just the BIL? We have also done the 'swapping' thing. DH sometimes sleeps with DS and I sometimes sleep with DD on a trip. I would personally bribe them to sleep in the same bed - promise each kid something special of their choosing for it - and then take along a sleeping bag just in case!!!

If he has any type of SPG membership that would have points, he would probably be well advised to get a suite type of room at one of the two places. Or check and see if there is a discount code on the suites that he would be eligible to use - firefighter, gov't, nurse, teacher, entertainment book. You can increase your SPG membership status level in different ways. (See the SPG thread for more info). One of these is even through stockholder. We have shares in Starwood (HOT ? I believe) and that allowed us an increase in our SPG class level. I have lost my brochure with specifics but I am sure room upgrade was one of them (if avail).

Trekker - same with you. Don't you have enough points to use those to do the Club upgrade? I really like the Club Level (course if I have to shell out a bunch of $, I'll dislike it really fast ) Next time I'm going to find someone to give me a tour of the suites across from my room. I caught glimpses of grand pianos when they had the door open!!!

Loubon is that the Blue Zoo? Do we have a link to a menu from them yet? Also, where are those fireworks originating from? I don't remember seeing any so high or intense. Or was that a special occasion?

DF - I need a little camera help!!! This is in relation to that camera I want to buy for my trip to Swolphin so hopefully that is topic enough for the day. The Sony Mavica 500 CD that we are using at work has one particular problem. About 50% of our photos are blurry - even if we feel we are holding the camera as still as can be. We are waiting until it 'locks' on focus and then snapping, but only about half appear to be in focus. I don't know if it is us and the weight of the camera and we are jiggling w/o realizing or what the problem is. Nearly all of these are indoor photos w/flash from work events - nothing much outside yet so nothing to compare there. Any suggestions? Do you have this with your Mavica?

GO BUCKY!!!!!

 

[Loubon]

I have no idea about the fireworks (see my previous confession) but.....

Here is the Link For the Blue Zoo

 

[MOM POPPINS]

Our trip is sooooo close now... I even got the suitcases out yesterday.... As you enter the Dolphin lobby remember to look up and see the shooting stars... ahhhhh I can't wait

IT IS SNOWING IN NORTH TEXAS ! The girls are thrilled! We have 4 inches of snow so far and they are having a great time playing in it. We even cranked up the four wheeler to take them slipping and sliding...

Waving to the room here in snowy Trenton Texas

Thanks jgates for sending us some snow

 

[madge]

Just checking in....

DF, your PM box is full....it isn't anything major that I needed, anyway. I'll try again this week.

Does anyone know the answer to this....when the resort is sold out, if a room becomes available, is it released at rack rate or is there a chance that it will be released at any of the discounts(govt, AAA, entertainment, AAA, etc)?

also, why is there a limit of 4 to a room at the Swan? why no 4 plus a crib?

just curious

 

[MOM POPPINS]

Madge ~ Back when my family was smaller We were always allowed to book a room with 4 plus a crib. We stayed at Dixie landings on our first trip to WDW and we were a family of 5. Our Baby Monica was in a crib back then. I really though all resorts allowed 4 plus a crib, I would call back to the Dolphin directly and see if you get a different answer.

Swan/Dolphin was sold out for March 9th. I was allowed to book it through the Swan and Dolphin email. My rate stayed the same government rate. I don't know if this always is the case, but I know it worked for me last week.

 

[madge]

Originally posted by MOM POPPINS
Madge ~ Back when my family was smaller We were always allowed to book a room with 4 plus a crib. We stayed at Dixie landings on our first trip to WDW and we were a family of 5. Our Baby Monica was in a crib back then. I really though all resorts allowed 4 plus a crib, I would call back to the Dolphin directly and see if you get a different answer.

Swan/Dolphin was sold out for March 9th. I was allowed to book it through the Swan and Dolphin email. My rate stayed the same government rate. I don't know if this always is the case, but I know it worked for me last week.

every time I call S/D reservations, they tell me only 4 at the Swan. hmm....I don't understand it. oh well.

I'll try the e-mailing route. I was able to get a room through Dreams Unlimited for $110 more a night I dont want to move mid-week...so I booked it. I will do anything to save this $220 (well, almost....)

thanks

did your kids enjoy the snow?

 

[dreamflight99]

"HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to ALL!"

Fantasia Sam~Nice to see you here again! YES, the "SWOLPHIN" can definitely accomodate your future BIL. I wonder how they will decide WHO gets the bed vs. Rollaway?(LOL). There is plenty of room in each deluxe to easily accomodate the rollaway..AS LONG AS, they take the few minutes each morning to stand it up (on end) against the wall. We used one in the past in a deluxe room in the Dolphin, no problem. They will be thrilled with the accomodations, and the added ammenities a DELUXE resort offers.

sarahsmom73~ always nice to hear from the silent "lurkers" whom offer support from the sidelines. I'm so pleased you took the time to post, and let us know how beneficial you find this thread. Makes it all worthwhile. Acts of selfless Altruism actually raise immune defense mechanisms and make you live longer. Philanthropy is overflowing on these pages. ^_^

crz4mm2~Another CHEERY "Hello" to you, Cathy! Yes, many times you will not receive any reply to a room request, but trust me...they are noted. If you are registered on the www.spg.com site, you should be able to access your reservation and read the description (to check for any upgrades, etc.). Sometimes the resort waits until the last week (prior to your arrival) before accepting/rejecting room and other special requests. It's up to the resort, and completely based upon availability, etc. Hope this helps. Mug in hand? Would that be a "SISTERLY"mug...lovingly offered through the genius of Dismug (err...BUG) and LOU? We need to do a "head-count" of the # of members in our Sorority...maybe generate a little "newsletter" via email, etc. Good idea?

LOU~YOU'RE A DREAM...and brightened my day with your PICTURES! Thanks for taking the time to post such a menagerie...truly a virtual "escape" for the mind and soul. You are the MASTER of "FEEL GOOD" posts!

Trekker~Did you receive my email? The link has been posted, so all is well. You are CLOSE to your trip! You are going to LOVE the Eastern Cruise. We took one last summer, on the Wonder. We also took the Magic on the Western. Both are comparable..and AWESOME. If you have any questions, feel free to pm me (after I do some mousekeeping and clean some messages!). Also, keep in mind you do not have to take all the luggage you bring to the Dolphin/WDW on the Cruise. Since the cabins are smaller than the deluxe rooms, LESS is MORE. With you returning to the Dolphin again after the cruise, they would be MORE than happy to "store" a piece or two for your convenience until you return. Contact the Bell Captain (if interested) upon your arrival. We have used this service on a number of occasions...works like MAGIC!

*Club Level...have you "asked" at the time of check-in, if by chance you could receive a complimentary upgrade to CL? Remember, it NEVER...EVER...hurts to simply ask. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, I would strongly suggest it. And...as Jgates posted, you should be VERY close to obtaining enough points with the # of stays under your belt. Have you checked-out the SPG site for alternative methods for obtaining SPG points? Do you have the coveted STARWOOD AMEX card? There are a lot of perks with this CC, and the first years fee is waived, after that...a mere $35 annually. Worth every penny. Take a look on the SPG site.

*Your point is well-taken, and completely understood. With each new thread..we strive to maintain perspective and promote our "positive" image.

(*Do you own one of those CHEESEHEAD hats?)

maggiew~Those initial two photos on LOU'S post are of the old "Swolphin" decor. The new renovated rooms offer a much more subdued and understated look (conventional). The pineapples are a thing of the past (sorry to say), and the hallways will be changed completely within a year. I too...love the clouds and the beach scenes.

Jgates~The BLUE ZOO is a definite destination for us this summer. The menu reflects such a variety of fresh fish...one of my FAV foods! Should be incredible.

**Camera assistance: Are you SURE you are using "Auto-focus" when taking these pictures? Mine are all crystal~clear, and focus immediately...taking less than a second to "zone-in" on the main target. I still prefer the old "floppy" mavica over my CD (as the floppys cause me less-stress when traveling, as they seem less-fragile). Check on the site www.sony.com and contact technical assistance using the help center for a prompt answer. Re-Check the "focus" you are using for these photos. I'll double-check mine, and let you know.

MOM POPPINS~And while there, as we come/go through the lobby to the Valet, I like to wait on the benches and look up at the stars..shooting across the ceiling (or...sky!). I would LOVE to have this in my BR. What a way to drift-off....

Congratulations on the SNOW! We are heading up to the mountains today (30 minutes) for some PLAY in the SNOW! But, nothing is better than having it in your own backyard. Enjoy the fluff...and Have a wonderful Holiday!

madge~I need to do some serious mousekeeping in my PM box! Thanks for the notice.

MP is indeed correct. 5 persons can stay in a room at the Swan/Dolphin. This is WHY they offer the option of a rollaway and a crib! Dixie Landings (a mod) offered the same, as we had friends whom used the crib option. Someone is giving incorrect information at the Swan. It is "4 Adults" to a room. A Child in a crib is always welcome, in addition to the adults! Try using the email form for the room as MP did last week. Once it's confirmed, email your CRIB request using the form on the S/D site. You should not have any problem with this matter.

As for the rooms which are placed back in circulation? YES, some are again placed in the discount pricing area. If you are waiting for such a room, make SURE to have the CM "wait-list" you for such a discount. This way, you will be the first to receive it (before it goes in the general reservation pool).


Enjoy the HOLIDAY!!

TTFN...DF99

 

[DisneyDmbNut]

Hello all...

Mind if I sit over in the corner...I am sad..my WLVet home is a not-so-nice place right now!!

 

[madge]

As for the rooms which are placed back in circulation? YES, some are again placed in the discount pricing area. If you are waiting for such a room, make SURE to have the CM "wait-list" you for such a discount. This way, you will be the first to receive it (before it goes in the general reservation pool).

well, I am on this wait-list (it took 2 calls to get on it ), but was strongly advised to keep calling about the sold out nights. I HATE calling and calling, LOL.....but I will. $200 is a lot of disney fun

I also have to tell you that EVERY single time I have called, I have been told that 5 of us (2 adluts and 3 kids) cannot stay in a standard room at the Swan, only the Dolphin. strange.

Lisa, I have a question regarding all of this....I'll PM you later this week to pick your brain, if you don't mind.

Happy Valentine's Day!

 

[Kaycee]

Wow, what a beautiful sparkly-new home we have here!

This will be our first stay as SPG members, so I really appreciate the tip about simply waiting if no one is at the SPG desk. I probably would've walked over to the regular line, but I want to get the best room I can with my Starwood Gold/Starwood points, so now I know to just wait at the SPG desk!

Mom Poppins - It's so funny you mentioned the shooting stars - I was just thinking about those myself and was going to mention them in my next post for those going to the Dolphin soon who may not know to look for them. This is one of the many, many things we love about the Dolphin!

Now that our boys are old enough to spend some time on their own, we're thinking about ordering room service for them one evening and then having some adult time at one of the Dolphin restaurants. I've been reading some great things about Blue Zoo, so it sounds like a good choice. Then again, we've never been to Shula's either, and DH is a HUGE Miami Dolphins fan. Any thoughts from those who've been to one or the other, or both?