Why we stay at the Swan/Dolphin
1. Location - Part of the price paid for a Disney trip is your time. I would rather spend it at the resort, parks, etc than on the roadways off property. We did it that way many times, and we won't do it any more. Staying here you are truly centrally located to all things. It is much easier and takes less time to return to the hotel for an afternoon swim and/or nap - which is also a must for us.
2. Theme/Ambiance - I love all things Disney, but I do enjoy the fabulous enviroment at the Swan/Dolphin. Michael Graves, recently of Target fame did much of the design work and it is great! It is whimsical, fantastical, and sophisticated.
3. Starwood - Don't underestimate the value of earing points in this program. We usually stay at Sheraton 4 Points properties - their more economy minded locations when we travel and these stays earn points and nights toward elite statue (gold or platinum). Free upgrades and using points + cash promotions, or just points can make the value of Swan/Dolphin even greater. How much money will you spend to feed your group breakfast everyday? How about free water to take to the parks? (we saved nearly $100 on our last 8 day stay on water alone) What about the evening snacks and beverages? All of this is available on club level rooms which you can get with points and/or upgrades depending on your status (gold or platinum).
4. Tubbi's - The cafeteria style eatery in the Dolphin has great anad filling meals at a compative fraction of the cost of other options at hotels - especially their daily blue plate specials.
There are other things we love like the discounts for teachers, the room amenities, the staff, and the swimming pools.