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

[DisneyDmbNut]

*wiggles her jiggle for The SOrority sisters*

Visit the Humphrey Home for a Roy update!!

 

[#1hockeymom]

I would have to agree, the Swan's fruit platters are much better than the concierge fruit platters at AKL concierge! Yes, there are very limited hours for club level at the Swan and Dolphin, but you are paying a lot less, too! If you are really looking at just a quick and easy place for breakfast *no eggs/meat, though* then CL at the Swan/Dolphin is the way to go without all of the extra cost!

We used the early evening hours a few times as a place for the kids to eat a snack before we had our dinner reservations. We also would take a pop back to our room to put in the minibar to enjoy when we got back from the parks.

Debbie

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by Mouseteacher


DF~ we were simul-posting - thanks for the kind words. I have never treated anyone in that manner either - certainly not my DSs teachers or principal. I endure that type of behavior more often than not. People just seem to be so angry and feel a need to blame. A quick example - I could not make a basketball game 2 weeks ago b/c my brother-in-law was rushed to the hospital in serious condition the day before the game. I received a phone call from a parent yelling at me and upset that I didn't attend the game. She called me disrespectful. There was no way at that point that I would even make an explanation as to why I wasn't there. When the rant was finished, I simply and calmly told her I didn't owe her an explanation.

Mouseteacher...Simply lays credence to the aphorism: "It takes all kinds." My parents never behaved in such a crass, classless manner in their lives either. So, perhaps because I never witnessed my role models behaving in such a way, neither would/do I. Makes you wonder what types of "lessons" these folks are teaching their own children? I never knew your "job description" included all sporting events, etc.? Perhaps you should include the parameters of your duties and responsibilities in a newsletter, to all parents! Incredible...and these folks NEVER cease to amaze me (And I'm not even a teacher/administrator). So sorry, for all the stress.

AspiringCindy~As jgates posted, there are some offerings in the afternoon/evening. The fresh fruit, cheese and crackers are my favs too! The lounge is open nightly for the illuminations show, although not many know about this *(as it's usually empty, or just a few folks are there). If you wanted something which was not "out", and you ask quietly, politely, they will usually get it for you.

TTFN...DF99

 

[Piglette]

Just read up on 5 pages I somehow missed, and that raised some questions for me. Can y'all help?

I've got a AAA Preferred Plus Starwood membership (which I understand has the same benefits as Gold). We currently have a limited view room. I have asked for a complimentary upgrade on the request form, but have not specified what I'd like. What should I ask for? A preferred view room with a balcony? I'd rather have CL privileges with a non-balcony room, but I'm gathering that's not an option?

Also, does changing my Starwood card to SPG Gold instead of AAA preferred plus help me on the room request? If so, does having a Gold American Express (but not the Starwood one) allow me to do that?

I can't tell you how much I appreciate all of your help. I was very nervous about the Dolphin when I first booked, and now am nothing but excited

 

[dreamflight99]

"HAPPY FAT TUESDAY to ALL!"

DisneyDmbNut~ Thanks for the update! I'll be over there shortly.

Piglette~Sometimes, Gold has a tendency to obtain a room (preferred view w/balcony, etc) upgrade. Rarely, if ever, do they comp the CL privs. I believe you must have a PLAT. card, to receive an upgrade to a GOLD SPG. I may be incorrect, but I recall this was the promo. There is no need to tell them the "type" of AMEX card, just the level (Gold, Plat). I would call with the gold and inquire. Many folks with just the preferred level of SPG have received room upgrades. The only people assured CL status are the PLAT. SPG. members. So happy you are EXCITED about your plans! It's a fabulous property...and you'll be pleased you selected it (I'm sure!).

TTFN...DF99

TODAY....FEELS like a MONDAY! DD had off school yesterday. She played Steel drums for her school (Catholic Church's 29th annual Mardi Gras celebration) on Sunday for 7+ hours! Today, they will celebrate the festivities of the season on campus. The clubs are all selling food in the quad in celebration of the final FEAST. The priest is burning the palm fronds today, and will use the ashes tomorrow during Mass. Enjoy the day! :

 

[hightown]

Just wanted to POP into this thread. First to say how much I enjoy reading it!

Second, I do have some questions...

I reserved the Dolphin thru DU, 7 nights, AP discount at 147.50 a night w/one level free upgrade to Lake View. May 14-21. I really got sick of waiting for Disney AP rates and even when they come out,they will still be more expensive than this rate at the Dolphin. Even counting the $10.00 resort fee!

Last weekend, I decided to add a night and make this the longest vacation yet. Got the same rate and when I look at Starwood's site (I am SPG Gold) it showed 8 nights but said "Resort View". Is that an upgrade? Do you think this is my Comp SPG Gold and it's not likely that I'll get another?

I really would like the coveted Balcony room. If you think that's it for the comp'd upgrade then I may see about spending points just before arrival.

Or if you all think there's a chance of add'l upgrade should I just see what magic happens on arrival?

Also, if anyone has that list of Balcony rooms with EPCOT views and could e mail or PM me--I'd really appreciate it.

Thanks!
Sharon

 

[marymrg]

Dh just emailed that he(we, us) will be attending a conference in April 2005 at the SWAN!! It's the week after Easter so we will probably extend our vacation - even if it means shipping the teenagers back home when their break ends and just keeping our youngest with us.

Can my husband use my SPG number? If not, I'm thinking then he can just book the conference (no room) and I'll book the room and then he can get reimbursed from his company. Wow - so much to think about. As my DS15 said last night, "Mom, the day after we get home, you start planning the next trip."

 

[Chereya]

**X-post, wrong thread originally**

Hi!

Thanks everyone for the great advice so far!

DF99, I tried to PM you but your box is full I am hoping someone on this thread can give me some tips and advice about the Swan.

I am trying to plan a magical honeymoon on a shoestring budget! I have booked a standard room at the swan for 4 nights, M-F, from 6/14-6/18 and have a $259 rate for the first 3 nights and a $162.50 rate for the 4th. I called the Swan directly and the agent advised I call back occasionally to see if the discount rate opened up.

I joined the SPG under AAA so I could get the extra perks. How likely are free upgrades? My FIL to be has about 6000 points in his SPG account. Are points transferrable? Can I use his points? What's the best way to do it?

What recommendations do you have for floor or wing or room number requests? I'd love to be able to see Epcot and/or fireworks.

Any help and advice would be greatly appreciated! I am feeling close to overwhelmed with all of the possibilities, options and inside info regarding my honeymoon (not to mention planning the wedding, lol!).

Thanks so much for your help in advance!

Chereya

 

[Muffy]

Chereya, Just call the Starwood 800 # and asked to have your FIL acct. MERGED with yours. It is very simple and just takes a phone call. I did answer your question on the other thread.

Congratulations! You will love the Swan.

Muffy

 

[BambiTamby]

Chereya....

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Oh, good, Muffy! your clippie looks great!

 

[dreamflight99]

My box is FULL again?!? ~ I need to keep up with the cleaning! Sorry Chereya!

hightown~WELCOME! I'll pm you with the list of room #'s with Balconies (EPCOT VIEW)!

Car Rentals~Looks like the discounts went with the Disney Club...SOUTH! I've been on all day, making the reservations for WDW & Dolphin, etc. No more lux. Suv through Budget. Only one available is @ MCO through Hertz. I reserved it...$1224 for two weeks...OUCH!!! (Expedition....4x4 Unlimited miles. Hummer II about $350 more). AM I NUTZ...or what?!? LOL...most all others are costing me $80 per day, due to drop-off rate surcharges (LAX,etc.). Have to do the rest tomorrow. At least I'll be driving from Vero to the MEET in STYLE...LOL (crystal-studded glasses and SAG card in hand!!)...

TTFN... DF99

 

[dorisdvu]

I have a ressie for 2 rooms at the Dolphin. This is what my ressies say about the room:
"Traditional Non-Smoking, Resort View, Free Highspeed Internet Acces, Armoire/Tv/Stocked Minibar, Movies/Games/Video Check Out, View Of Crescent Lake. The Room Contains Iron And Ironing Board, Coffee Maker, Hair Dryer And Wall Safe."

I am a new SPG member (zero points). My only request that I've submitted is connecting rooms - new renovated.

Any ideas what kind of view I will have? When do they assign rooms? I will be arriving early in the day to check in (I know I won't be able to get in the room), will this benefit me in any way? I'm pretty sure the hotel is going to be full (3-21-3-26) while I'm there, so I doubt I would get any upgrades, right?

 

[Mouseteacher]

Doris~ not necessarily...you could get a renovated room and connecting rooms, don't give up hope -- ask at check-in, too. I have checked in early morning on all my stays and our room was always ready.

DF - rhinstone studded sunglasses, driving in style and flashing a SAG card!!! Cool!

marymrg~ I believe your DH can use your spg # when making reservations - he could use your name in addition to his. I really loved my stay at the Swan - I'm sure you will, too.

welcome from me, too, Chereya.

 

[#1hockeymom]

Welcome Hightown Doris and Chereya!

Can't wait to see DF in her rhinestone glasses flying into the portico, smiling all the way!

marymrg>> Great news! A Swan trip! If you really want those points, you might want to make the reservations under your number, and have work reimburse your husband. I know I attached my number to my reservations in Tampa and I never received any points since it was a prepaid hotel room. Points aside, you're going to Disney!

*room wave to all*
Debbie

 

[dreamflight99]

Yep...that'll be me! ~I've finally made all the ressies for the rentals. What a RELIEF!! Premium 4x4 SUV's and Luxury vehicles all the way. The expedition, or navigator...is not the $1224.00 I initially thought it was. It is $1534.00 with unlimited miles! (AAA discount too!). The previous quote was for 700 miles per week, and did not include fees/taxes. We may drive more than that...so I would hate to pay the .31 per mile (over 700) if we did! Unlimited Miles is the only way to go for us while on vacation. Whew...rentals have gone up a bit, eh? The others I rented through Emerald Aisle and Alamo, airports and Dolphin also seemed higher than in years past. Seven rental ressies in all. We may even use more, but will do this directly from the Dolphin. And wouldn't you know it...this is also the year we renew our PAP's!! But, this $1600 is well worth the price. I calculated it today. It averages less than $12 per day!! Now, that's something to smile about.

dorisdvu~As everyone else reports...do not give up hope. Your rooms may very well be ready for you upon arrival at the resort. Ask (nicely) at the front desk for a theme park view, connecting renovated rooms, etc. If you express to the front desk you are willing to "wait" for these things if necessary (perhaps some guests are checking-out later), this may increase your chances of receiving your wishes. The Valet will secure and hold all your luggage until your rooms are ready. You can then go to the parks, etc., and return to your rooms!

hightown~I PM'd you with the information you requested.

TTFN...DF99

*MAKING PROGRESS on the PLANS!

 

[hightown]

Dreamflight, Thanks for the pm with the room numbers. Appreciate it and will keep my fingers crossed for the next 77 days hoping for a balcony room w/epcot view!


Thanks for the welcome to the Thread. Will continue to look in and pickup all these good tips and advise.

Sharon

 

[BambiTamby]

Originally posted by DisneyDmbNut
*wiggles her jiggle for The SOrority sisters*

Visit the Humphrey Home for a Roy update!!

For DisneyDmbnut.....

Sharon...isn't this thread awesome!
It's truly a FAQ for two of the best WDW resorts!

DF....does your DD go to a Catholic School, also?
My DS does and I see we both have the same taste in rental vehicles!
Classy lady!

Yes....those flashy crystal-studded glasses would really set the total look on FIRE!!!!

 

[zurgswife]

HI Gang...

Thanks for all your kind thoughts....It does help to hug the kids but right now my biggest challange is my dd12...she suffers from some mental health issues...the past 2 weeks have been Hell...I'm numb from all the stress...DH and I have joke an entire BOTTLE of TYLENOL...wouldn't touch our headaches....

I decided to do a budget for July and unless I stay at a value with a big discount ....and drive I still couldn't do it for less then $2000....sounds cheap but if DH doesn't have a job...it is out of the ball park....While I would really love to meet all of you great people I don't think it will work out....HUGS AND KISS FROM ZW...

BUT JOB OR NO JOB we are going in DEC.....my Tax return looks like it will cover almost all of our trip.....YIPPEEE for small miricles.....

My favorite part of our trip to the Dolphin last Dec was DH's face when we walked into our 2bdrm Executive Suite....It was awesome...Huge and beautiful.....can't wait to stay there again....

Fingers crossed

 

[BambiTamby]

{{{{{HUGS}}}}}} back at you, ZW!

those 2 bedroom executive suites are hard to forget, aren't they?

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by BambiTamby
DF....does your DD go to a Catholic School, also?
My DS does and I see we both have the same taste in rental vehicles!
Classy lady!

Yes....those flashy crystal-studded glasses would really set the total look on FIRE!!!!

YES...she most certainly does! Since K-garten. In fact, Mouseteacher is an administrator (head honcho) at a Catholic school in Boston! My taste knows no boundaries! When we have taken the Disney Cruise ship...it was in in the top floor balcony stateroom, as the suites were sold-out! (LOL). I'm working on a booking right now...for 2005, so we can have the Disney (Roy or Walt) suite! Whew...if only I could just "settle" for the interior room *(But I can't). Life is too short...to let all the brass rings just pass on by!! **Speaking of Crystals...I'll be sure to bring one of my "Bauman bags" to the meet!!

TTFN...DF99