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

[ozziewags]

Originally Posted by anbouk View Post
What is your 'preferred' transportation from the Orlando Airport to the Swan/Dolphin Hotel, since, unfortunately they do not participate with Disneys Magical Express?

We used Berkley Edwards. He was highly recommended on this board by many people and he was great. He has a van that is immaculate and was not only on time, but very personable and friendly. You can find him at www.berkleytrans.com. He picked us up at the airport, took us to Portofino Bay, then picked us up a couple days later and took us to the Dolphin, then took us to the airport at the end of our trip. I highly recommend him.

 

[danjoan14]

How much $ do you need to spend on the C/C in order to rack up soooo very many points? Just curious. Does it mean you need to spend $10,000?

Yes, $1 equals 1 point. We purchased a Sheraton time share two years ago that gave us 50,000 points up front. We than added the every year usuage, and ended up with an additional 40,000 bonus points. I also charge all of my monthly bills to my AMEX, write one check each month, and earn Starpoints.

 

[CindeBella]

I'm trying to plan a stay at the S/D for March, 2009. When would you suggest I make the ressies? If the rate drops, can I apply the change after initial ressie is made? I know it's a long way off, but what kind of rate do you think I can expect to get? Our options would be...

AAA
Fl. Resident
teacher rate (DH and I are both teachers)

I also signed up at the SPG website, if that helps.

I just need a little guidance so I know what to budget...

TIA!

I make our ressie's as soon as the date becomes available since we use a Gov't discount. There are only so many rooms available at those rates. If the rate drops they will adjust it for you. You can probably get a room for $165 at the teacher's rate. I'm not sure about FL residents. The teacher rate is better than AAA.

Also, if you are AAA members you can upgrade your SPG membership to Gold. Some people have reported that they have gotten upgrades.
You can contact SPG membership to upgrade.
Make sure that information is on your reservation and call 5 days prior and at check in to ask whether it is likely you can get an upgrade.

 

[anbouk]

I make our ressie's as soon as the date becomes available since we use a Gov't discount. There are only so many rooms available at those rates. If the rate drops they will adjust it for you. You can probably get a room for $165 at the teacher's rate. I'm not sure about FL residents. The teacher rate is better than AAA.

Also, if you are AAA members you can upgrade your SPG membership to Gold. Some people have reported that they have gotten upgrades.
You can contact SPG membership to upgrade.
Make sure that information is on your reservation and call 5 days prior and at check in to ask whether it is likely you can get an upgrade.

I read elsewhere on this board too about gold upgrades thru SPG. I had contacted them, spoke to several people about this, and knew nothing about upgrading to gold status from being a AAA member. I even called AAA and they connected me to Starwood, still no luck for me! I am a preferred plus starwood member. Don't know what I am doing wrong?

 

[michboro]

I read elsewhere on this board too about gold upgrades thru SPG. I had contacted them, spoke to several people about this, and knew nothing about upgrading to gold status from being a AAA member. I even called AAA and they connected me to Starwood, still no luck for me! I am a preferred plus starwood member. Don't know what I am doing wrong?

I called SPG about a month ago and said that I was a AAA member and wanted to be upgraded to gold and they did it. I think she asked me where I had heard about it and I had said that a friend had told me about it.
Maybe you could try back and will have more luck if you talk to someone else.

 

[anbouk]

I called SPG about a month ago and said that I was a AAA member and wanted to be upgraded to gold and they did it. I think she asked me where I had heard about it and I had said that a friend had told me about it.
Maybe you could try back and will have more luck if you talk to someone else.

Hi Mich...yes, I believe I had read one of your previous threads here, and you gave me the idea. Did Starwood ask you for the AAA member ship #, in order to upgrade you? Just curious., or do you just show the card upon check-in at the hotel? Thanks again, I may give it another shot!

 

[tarheelmjfan]

Also, if you are AAA members you can upgrade your SPG membership to Gold. Some people have reported that they have gotten upgrades.
You can contact SPG membership to upgrade.
Make sure that information is on your reservation and call 5 days prior and at check in to ask whether it is likely you can get an upgrade.

Do you have to have the AAA card in hand to book with the AAA discount? Our membership has expired & I was going to wait to renew it for my DH for Christmas. Killing 2 birds with one stone. We wouldn't be going until May. Also, is the upgrade to Gold SPG membership an ongoing promotion? We've been SPG members for years, & this is the 1st I've heard of this.

We're trying to decide between staying at S/D, or staying in a WDW resort & booking the Deluxe Dining Plan. We'd really prefer the S/D, but would need to get a good rate to warrant forgoing the DDDP. We don't quality for the Govt. or Teacher rates. Are there usually other discount rates available?

PS: For all the S/D devotees....... Which page of this thread should I start reading on? Going all the way back to 2004 seems a bit far to me.

Thanks in advance for the info.

 

[CindeBella]

Do you have to have the AAA card in hand to book with the AAA discount? Our membership has expired & I was going to wait to renew it for my DH for Christmas. Killing 2 birds with one stone. We wouldn't be going until May. Also, is the upgrade to Gold SPG membership an ongoing promotion? We've been SPG members for dyears, & this is the 1st I've heard of this.

We're trying to decide between staying at S/D, or staying in a WDW resort & booking the Deluxe Dining Plan. We'd really prefer the S/D, but would need to get a good rate to warrant forgoing the DDDP. We don't quality for the Govt. or Teacher rates. Are there usually other discount rates available?

PS: For all the S/D devotees....... Which page of this thread should I start reading on? Going all the way back to 2004 seems a bit far to me.

Thanks in advance for the info.

I didn't know of the AAA Gold upgrade until recently. I talked with a few SPG associates before someone knew how to help me. If you do a search on this site you should be able to locate a link/thread.
For us, we love staying at these two resorts. The Dolphin's rooms are a bit bigger than the Swan's ~ we love both resorts but choose the Dolphin for that purpose.
We do a few character meals and hardly eat counter service so for our family I found it more economical to stay at the S/D using the gov't discount rather than getting a room at Boardwalk/Beach Club since that is the area we like to stay at. That's up to you to decide. I believe there are good rates during the month of May w/o any discount (AA, Gov't,etc), those come up periodically. You can get a quote for the hotel you choose (AAA discounts are offered at WDW resorts) and compare it. I don't remeber if I gave the AAA # or not.
We've never been during the free dining promotion so I'm not sure what the price difference would be.
This link should help with the AAA Gold Membership info:
http://www.disboards.com/searchbt.php?s=&search=AAA+SPG+

Have you been to the link for S/D discounts? That is a good place to start.
You can always cancel any reservations 5 days prior to arrival.

I would start reading 20 pages back or so...that's up to you. You can always post questions.

Hope this helps!

 

[LuluLovesDisney]

Hi S/D fans!

Just wondering if anyone's been to the "market" side of Picabu's lately. I never really stopped in there too long and I was wondering if they sell larger containers of juice - like a quart or liter size? BF loves juice (orange, apple, cranberry) and could easily drink 2-3 individual size ones.

 

[michboro]

Hi Mich...yes, I believe I had read one of your previous threads here, and you gave me the idea. Did Starwood ask you for the AAA member ship #, in order to upgrade you? Just curious., or do you just show the card upon check-in at the hotel? Thanks again, I may give it another shot!

Sorry, but I can't remember if Starwood asked for my AAA number when they upgraded me.


I just found the post containing info on gold upgrade:
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=19181397&postcount=48

Join Starwood Preferred Guest® today, to enjoy AAA/CAA Preferred Plus® advantages:

Instant upgrade to a Preferred room at check-in, and 4pm late check-out. (Subject to availability).
2 Starpoints for every $1 USD spent.
Instant Awards offering spontaneous indulgences, such as breakfast in bed, massage, and more.
Advance notice of hotel offers and more

Call 1-866-782-7737 to join SPG or to upgrade your account today — simply mention enrollment code "AAA/CAA" to start enjoying the benefits now

 

[michboro]

I had a question about the room upgrades. If you are a preferred gold spg member, then you get upgrade if available at check in. If you are a gold preferred spg member, then can you buy upgrade at time of reservation?
If you have 1500 points and are a gold member then is there such a thing as combining the upgrades, and what does that get you?

 

[tarheelmjfan]

I didn't know of the AAA Gold upgrade until recently. I talked with a few SPG associates before someone knew how to help me. If you do a search on this site you should be able to locate a link/thread.
For us, we love staying at these two resorts. The Dolphin's rooms are a bit bigger than the Swan's ~ we love both resorts but choose the Dolphin for that purpose.
We do a few character meals and hardly eat counter service so for our family I found it more economical to stay at the S/D using the gov't discount rather than getting a room at Boardwalk/Beach Club since that is the area we like to stay at. That's up to you to decide. I believe there are good rates during the month of May w/o any discount (AA, Gov't,etc), those come up periodically. You can get a quote for the hotel you choose (AAA discounts are offered at WDW resorts) and compare it. I don't remeber if I gave the AAA # or not.
We've never been during the free dining promotion so I'm not sure what the price difference would be.
This link should help with the AAA Gold Membership info:
http://www.disboards.com/searchbt.php?s=&search=AAA+SPG+

Thanks for all the info. We've only toured these 2 resorts, but we do like the look of them. As you noted, the location is great! I think we would prefer staying at the Dolphin also. A bigger room is nice, when you have a teen travelling with you. I think Picabu sounds like a great place for breakfast too.

I probably need to clarify the dining situation. We aren't looking at free dining. We'd be going the 1st of May. We would be purchasing the new Deluxe Dining Plan at WDW, if we go that route. It's too bad that you can't book the dining plan, when staying at S/D. That would make the decision easier.

Have you been to the link for S/D discounts? That is a good place to start.
You can always cancel any reservations 5 days prior to arrival.

I haven't looked there yet. I thought it was too early. Now that I know it's not, I'll check now.

I would start reading 20 pages back or so...that's up to you. You can always post questions.

Hope this helps!

Thanks, I'll try that. You've been very helpful!

 

[CindeBella]

Thanks for all the info. We've only toured these 2 resorts, but we do like the look of them. As you noted, the location is great! I think we would prefer staying at the Dolphin also. A bigger room is nice, when you have a teen travelling with you. I think Picabu sounds like a great place for breakfast too.

You're welcome! I've never eaten at Picabu. The Boardwalk Bakery is quick and you can sit on the Boardwalk while you enjoy a nice view and watch the boats go by.

It would be nice if S/D offered a dining plan but since they are not owned by Disney they probably will not be offering it but who knows...


We where the in May 2006 and it's a wonderful time to go. Although my allergies did bother me terribly. Fortunately, the store at the Contemporary (I would imagine the Boardwalk also) sold medication for that. Just a head's up if that is an issue for you.

Have fun planning your trip ~ if you have more questions just ask! So many wonderful people on this board!!

 

[Dislifer]

You're welcome! I've never eaten at Picabu. The Boardwalk Bakery is quick and you can sit on the Boardwalk while you enjoy a nice view and watch the boats go by.

It would be nice if S/D offered a dining plan but since they are not owned by Disney they probably will not be offering it but who knows...


We where the in May 2006 and it's a wonderful time to go. Although my allergies did bother me terribly. Fortunately, the store at the Contemporary (I would imagine the Boardwalk also) sold medication for that. Just a head's up if that is an issue for you.

Have fun planning your trip ~ if you have more questions just ask! So many wonderful people on this board!!

I will be staying at the Dolphin. If I want to sneak out quickly in the AM to get breakfast at the bakery on the boardwalk, where should I request my room to be at the Dolphin???

 

[CindeBella]

I will be staying at the Dolphin. If I want to sneak out quickly in the AM to get breakfast at the bakery on the boardwalk, where should I request my room to be at the Dolphin???

The only requests I make is for an upgrade ~ with that, I'll be happy with what I get. Last time, without any requests, we had a view of the Cinderella's castle. I was thrilled to see the fireworks (when we got back to our room in time one evening).

You can request a room on a lower lowel near the elevators..?? It's a nice walk ~ going over the bridge and walking along the Boardwalk. During our last stay, DH and I did not ride the boats once to MGM or Epcot. I try to walk off all of the extra calories! But more than anything, we love the scenery.
I had to get a Gardenia plant after falling in with the ones around the gazebo on the Boardwalk. Every time I smell them it reminds of that walk!

 

[Blondie]

We where the in May 2006 and it's a wonderful time to go. Although my allergies did bother me terribly. Fortunately, the store at the Contemporary (I would imagine the Boardwalk also) sold medication for that. Just a head's up if that is an issue for you.

You'd probably be able to buy allergy meds at Picabu as well. In this photo I can see Benadryl:

 

[CindeBella]

You'd probably be able to buy allergy meds at Picabu as well. In this photo I can see Benadryl:

I've never been in Picabu ~ good to know We were at Chef Mickey's when I got the allery med. Otherwise, I shop on Boardwalk. Next time I will check out Picabu. They seem to have anything you may need.

Benadryl makes me sleepy.. something I don't want to be at WDW! lol. I can sleep when I get home. Lol!

Thanks!!

 

[marvel]

Excuse my ignorance as I had never considered the Swan or Dolphin prior to all the positive threads on DIS. So If we book a stay here we cannot book the DDP at all?? Is that right? We were thinking of doing a split stay with the WL. Would I have to make two seperate bookings with Swan and then include the DDP with the WL booking?? We are looking at 10 -12 night all up for May next year.

 

[RachelTori]

Excuse my ignorance as I had never considered the Swan or Dolphin prior to all the positive threads on DIS. So If we book a stay here we cannot book the DDP at all?? Is that right? We were thinking of doing a split stay with the WL. Would I have to make two seperate bookings with Swan and then include the DDP with the WL booking?? We are looking at 10 -12 night all up for May next year.

That's correct - Swan/Dolphin would be a separate reservation as they are not owned by Disney. And while you can book a "package" at any of the WDW resorts, Swan & Dolphin are booked as "room only" (you buy park tickets separately and can not add-on a dining plan). That's the only downside to the Swan/Dolphin: no DDP, no Magical Express, and no charging to your room - other than the restaurants and shops @ the Swan & Dolphin. Definitely not deal-breakers as both resorts are beautiful and the location will spoil you!

 

[A fat english gent]

Just got confirmation back from dreams...will comeback and pick your brains later...Great thread...

Chris