not a magical time...

[traviesojmt]

I hate to hear that your trip was less than magical. We have been home a week since our trip to WDW and I could have written a completely opposite post. Everyone in our party thought the food was wonderful. We did not have a bad meal. Our service was nothing short of spectacular. We had more than 6 in our party so tip was added onto the bill. At several places, we tipped extra because the service was so darn good. I can't think of one cast member who wasn't at least pleasant if not downright friendly. I didn't see any cast members texting, but I don't tend to notice things like to be honest. Again, sorry your trip wasn't what you were hoping.

 

[AlyJoy716]

I don't see why you let a couple of not so great meals and a few CM's texting ruin your vacation? My philosophy on Disney is that I know going in that things are going to be expensive. I'm surprised that you are complaining about parking going up from $10 to $14. Every time I've gone, it's always more than I think it should be, but again, it's a theme park and resort area.

When we lived in Florida, we went to WDW several, several times, and once we took my DH's parents. His dad complained the whole time about what everything cost, and really put a damper on the trip. We told him that things weren't cheap, but he insisted on making side comments about how much everything cost and how hot it was. My solution-DON'T GO TO DISNEY IN THE SUMMER, OR IF AT ALL, FOR THAT MATTER! It will always be overly crowed during the summer months, and that's why we always go during the off season.

As far as CM's texting, well, it seems that it isn't allowed, and if it really "got your goat" as much as you are saying it was, then you should have complained to a manager. Otherwise, why let something like that ruin a vacation that you paid good money for? As I would tell my daughter, be happy you get to go. There are people in this world that will never know what the magic of Disney is all about. Not only that, but there are people who don't have food, clothing, or shelter, and here we are complaining about someone texting?!? I'm preaching to the choir because I have my bouts of it as well. Let's be thankful for what we have and are able to do with the resources we've been blessed with.

 

[disneychic]

....multiple times I seen people put off while CM's finish sending or reading text messages...

Sorry you were less than satisfied -- regarding the cellphones -- I was a cast member for years (just moved to Maine last fall for DH's job) and the only people who have cellphones out while on shift are managers. So, if this was going on it was because there was probably an issue that needed to be resolved. Regular CM's (non management) are not allowed to have cellphones on them during shifts.

 

[Don Disney]

I don't see why you let a couple of not so great meals and a few CM's texting ruin your vacation? My philosophy on Disney is that I know going in that things are going to be expensive. I'm surprised that you are complaining about parking going up from $10 to $14. Every time I've gone, it's always more than I think it should be, but again, it's a theme park and resort area.

When we lived in Florida, we went to WDW several, several times, and once we took my DH's parents. His dad complained the whole time about what everything cost, and really put a damper on the trip. We told him that things weren't cheap, but he insisted on making side comments about how much everything cost and how hot it was. My solution-DON'T GO TO DISNEY IN THE SUMMER, OR IF AT ALL, FOR THAT MATTER! It will always be overly crowed during the summer months, and that's why we always go during the off season.

As far as CM's texting, well, it seems that it isn't allowed, and if it really "got your goat" as much as you are saying it was, then you should have complained to a manager. Otherwise, why let something like that ruin a vacation that you paid good money for? As I would tell my daughter, be happy you get to go. There are people in this world that will never know what the magic of Disney is all about. Not only that, but there are people who don't have food, clothing, or shelter, and here we are complaining about someone texting?!? I'm preaching to the choir because I have my bouts of it as well. Let's be thankful for what we have and are able to do with the resources we've been blessed with.

Very well said!

 

[DEBBYIAC]

I just came back two weeks ago and it me I didn't feel the Magic but mine was more for the heat, I knew it was going to be hot, but I didn't expect all my engery to be sucked out of me, so we cut a few days short and went swimming, but all our meals were great and the CM's I dealt with were very nice, but I personally missed the magic of my last trip.

 

[Blessed_wth_Triplets]

Might I suggest staying onsite...I simply won't got to WDW unless we stay onsite...there's just something/and added magic about staying on property...plus no driving!

I agree with a PP that a break from WDW might be just the trick...absence does make the heart grow fonder

 

[Shock13]

Although I do find that some of the complaints are legit, I've come to realize from reading on these boards that those who go to WDW so many times are the ones that are often complaining about CM's, bad food, bad service, etc. but then they have a trip planned again in 6 months! Try taking a trip to Las Vegas (or any other vacation destination) and I guarantee it will shed some new light about WDW's customer service.
As for having pen/paper handy to take down names or looking for cause to complaint is just ludicrous. Move on and enjoy your trip.

 

[ols386]

I do think the food, in general, at WDW is not what it used to be. We ate at the 1900 Park Fare last year, and I thought the food left a lot to be desired. The characters were great, but the food, not so much. Especially considering the cost.

Most of the cm's at WDW, that I've intereacted with, are polite and helpful, but there are some who come across as disinterested or aloof,when you ask them a question. A few even act like you are really bothering them if you ask them a question.

 

[Quicked Ween]

speaking of texting...i had to wait for one to finish her texting while at the poly gift shop, while it didn't really ruin my trip, i was kind of surprised.

I've never seen this before. I didn't even think that they were allowed to bring their phones with them and had to keep them in their lockers. I'd be shocked and then pissed. And then, yeah I would probably *******

OP sorry your trip was less than magical. I would guess some of it is just Disney burn out. Even if the trip was the same it is percieved as less becasue it has be done over and over, especially if you have been doing it for 6 years.

We are going again this year but taking a break from the parks (must resist, must resist) and just hanging out at the resort and having a relaxing pool time vacation. Maybe you just need a different type of trip.

The texting would have irritated me. Depending on my mood and said "So Sorry you job is getting in the way of a social life. Do you know where I can find a manager"

Denise in MI

I agree. A theme park vacation is not going to be the same as a weekend at the beach. The most laid back person will turn into a Type A because you have to plan in order to save your sanity.

I know that I always have a piece of paper and a pen/pencil within easy grasp when I'm at WDW now. I like to report any great CMs and want to get their names right. BUT...I am also going to start getting names, times and locations of the not so good CMs, and sending those along to Disney as well.

Yes, I had to report two people earlier this year (who just happened to be working side by side) because they were beyond ridiculous with their attitudes.

you realize you're wanting two contradictory things, right? The fact that things have become more expensive at Disney actually acts to keep the crowds lower. If it was cheaper, MORE people would be there, and there would be MORE standing in line.

If I could kiss you I would. Thank you! Most of the people at Disney are there for a once in a lifetime vacation or day trippers. I don't know anyone other than my parents that have even stayed at a Disney resort (other than prom night ).

 

[ols386]

Although I do find that some of the complaints are legit, I've come to realize from reading on these boards that those who go to WDW so many times are the ones that are often complaining about CM's, bad food, bad service, etc. but then they have a trip planned again in 6 months! Try taking a trip to Las Vegas (or any other vacation destination) and I guarantee it will shed some new light about WDW's customer service.
As for having pen/paper handy to take down names or looking for cause to complaint is just ludicrous. Move on and enjoy your trip.

I believe the poster also stated that they take down names of cm's who they feel are doing an outstanding job, so that they can make WDW management aware of the positive, and give credit where credit is due.

 

[Shock13]

I believe the poster also stated that they take down names of cm's who they feel are doing an outstanding job, so that they can make WDW management aware of the positive, and give credit where credit is due.

True. But this poster said she would start taking names of CM's who were not performing up to her standards. To me that sounds like she would be more on the lookout of bad customer service instead of just enjoying her trip.

 

[CookieDiva]

Let's get goofy4tink's intention correct:

I know that I always have a piece of paper and a pen/pencil within easy grasp when I'm at WDW now. I like to report any great CMs and want to get their names right. BUT...I am also going to start getting names, times and locations of the not so good CMs, and sending those along to Disney as well.

Goofy4tink said that she brought paper and pen/pencil with her to report great CMs. (Bolded print above. Bolding mine.)
THEN she said that she was going to START to report not so good CMs...as well.
So, to me, it looks like goofy4tink started carrying her pen and paper to be able to acknowledge GOOD experiences. It is only after time, that she decided to also pass on examples of poor performance as well.

 

[missfigment]

True. But this poster said she would start taking names of CM's who were not performing up to her standards. To me that sounds like she would be more on the lookout of bad customer service instead of just enjoying her trip.

It would never occur to me to carry paper and pencil for this reason

 

[Tinkerbella001]

Op- sorry you had a miserable trip. We just got back today from Florida, after spending June 2-9 in the parks. The last couple days in the park it was waaaaay more crowded and not very fun. While we had a blast, we also encountered a few rude CMs. In one of the gift shops I noticed (after I paid) something rung up incorrectly. I told the CM and she said the price must have increased. I stated that the tag said a different price and she rudely shouted "if you don't want it anymore go to another register and return it". And yes, I got her name and filled out a note about "Lucille".

 

[VAN]

Yes, it is possible to get burnt out on Disney! Gasp!!!

We do love the whole resort environment, so have stayed on-site at Disney but done other things ... spring training game (at Wide World of Sports), Gaterland Zoo, Cocoa Beach, pool lounging, outlet mall shopping, Celebration, etc. We did go into the parks one day though.

Anyway, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing.

I think you are exactly right to take some time off.

TOTALLY agree about the restaurants though. But you will find that at other popular restaurants as well. The waiter arrives to take your order and then you don't see them again until the bill arrives. This really urks me regardless of where I am!!!

 

[leahjade]

Next time, go when it's not summertime - which is May - Sept. I'm sure the heat took a toll on everyone.

People who visit WDW in the summer should be entitled to good service too!

 

[WriterMommy]

hey! i was a cast member a hundred years ago (in the 90s) with the college program. They did put us through two weeks of training before we went "on stage." I was a merchandise hostess (what the normal world calls a cashier).

The training was really great, because they taught you to do everything with such excellence. Everyone's registers, for example, had to come out to the penny at night, and I was panicked in training because the registers never tell you how much change to give! But they teach you to count it 3 times precisely. I am bad at math, and my register was always perfect, because they had that procedure nailed.

We definitely did NOT follow the same rules that employees of most organizations do. As a cast member, you are told you are part of a show that creates an experience for the guest. (Thus the terminology--on stage, off stage, cast member, etc.) You had to look wholesome. You could not wear eyeliner. You couldn't color your hair. Your earrings had to be a neutral color and no larger than a dime. Men had to shave--no beards (except the illustrators and artists, who didn't have to follow the grooming rules), and no hair touching the collar. You had to point with two fingers or use your whole hand if a guest asked where the rest room was--in some cultures, pointing with one finger would be considered rude. If a guest asked a question that stumped you, you were to say, "That's a really great question!" Compliment them on the cleverness of their question, and get an answer pronto. You smiled, and said, "Have a magical day!" after you finished the transaction.


I could go on. It was a lot, and it was second nature by the time the training was over.

It was a blast of a summer!

Unless Disney has completely TANKED, trust me, no texting is allowed on stage unless you're in upper mgmt, and the cast member should take more pride in their work than that. Ask for a lead (what Disney calls the manager) and report it.

 

[CdnCarrie]

I teach my kids that they shouldn't tattle on their friends unless someone is getting hurt... I try to follow the same rule and texting really isn't hurting. Like a PP said ALMOST everyone has made a phone call, sent an email, texted and taken an extra 5 min on company time.... it's not right but adults do it all the time, thats where the teens learn it from

On this forum I see in posts all the time that people are typing the post from work. If we went to management about everyone who didn't do their job perfectly then there would be very few people with jobs

YES!!YES!!YES!!YES!!

Totally agree.

Is it wrong? Yes. Against company policy? Probably.

But why get someone fired for something you probably do as well.

Just relax and enjoy your vacation and try not to nitpick every little thing.

 

[TLinden16]

I'm going to move this to our trip report board.

 

[Jungle Cruiser]

Just read through this whole thread and was sorry to hear that the OP didn't feel the Disney Magic. Texting issues aside (which I gather is a "no no" for CM's on duty) maybe we should just step back and remember that WDW can't guarantee the millions of guests that pass though will all be happy. Prices have gone up yes, however not that long ago there was no such thing as "free dining", 40% off pins etc. Disney is growing in a difficult economy. Maybe there will be some "bumps" along the way, but I for one believe if we try, we can still find the Disney Magic!