OKW Check in Troubles--Long

[lllovell]

If the members all remain silent and try to "make the best of it", DVC won't consider changing their room assignment policies, because as far as they know, everyone is happy with them as they are.

I don't disagree with this at all. BUT, I dont find a check-in melt down to fit this category of "letting DVC know". I would hope that some find it important enough to them to do more than just talk here on the DIS and they have actually emailed or sent a letter to DVC asking for the "reservation" of X number of non-smoking rooms to be guaranteed. (This of course cannot stop the smoker in the non-smoking room from smoking...and will eventually have someone with a problem as well).

I just think that unless you have a documented medical need, then people need to remember that it is a request and that DVC does the best to accomidate all requests, but they are not guaranteed. (AT LEAST until the ressie system is changed to make it a guarantee not simply a request)

 

[lllovell]

While I will freely admit that I am NOT laid-back (wish I was but chronically a worrier!) I do NOT think that after a 1000-mile drive I should be jolly about a room that my parents can't climb to or breathe in. We shell out a fortune for accomodations at WDW. My family makes it a policy to NEVER patronize businesses that allow smoking. Why tolerate it at WDW?

The HC room issue also seems unique to DVC. In the non-DVC resorts, you are only "risking" a HC room if you want a king bed. In DVC this is not the case. While I would accept a HC room if it was all that was available, for a smoking room we'd have to switch resorts.

Not to be ugly, but you bought into DVC knowing it was not a non-smoking establishment. For that matter, neither is WDW. If your parents have true medical needs, I have NO problem with you getting a non-smoking or lower level room. That is EXACTLY my point. If everyone has legitimate MEDICAL issues (documented, etc), then I guess I would just chalk it up to being thrilled that I am healthy and that for the most part, it wont bother my family. I have small children, one of which (as I mentioned) has allergies. I just make sure to pack his allergy meds and we are good to go. I am luck that my sons don't mind a shower and I always include cabinet locks that would help me if we end up in a handicapped room (you can get mad at DVC about this one all you want - but they are following govt guidelines I am sure on the number of HC rooms).

I am not attacking. I know you cannot hear tones here. I am also NOT suggesting that they do away with requests. I am one that would like to see smoking/non-smoking set up just like Preferred/Standard at some other resorts and hotels. There are so many that are guaranteed and when they are booked, you can make a decision to stay elsewhere or take smoking if you dont care.

 

[jmminarik]

This thread has been fascinating. I thought I was the only one who had a stressful time at check-in!!! I agree that NS is not a "life or death" request, but it does make my boyfriend miserable. His eyes swell up, his throat swells up, and he gets horrid headaches. We do not go to venues that allow smoking.
.

Some would call this life and death. No one should have to be miserable when there's a workable solution.

-Joe

 

[lenshanem]

Well, when I joined DVC my guide never told me I could end up with a smoking unit or that I could possibly be without a tub for my kids. I don't recall seeing this in the literature either. (And I have expressed this to DVC by email.)

Why put your child on extra meds and have them suffer during your vacation because all that was available when you arrived were smoking rooms? I would prefer to be told upfront when I book that nonsmoking isn't available so I can choose different dates or another resort. I don't think that is unreasonable at all.

Like others have said, DVC isn't exactly cheap. Of all the trips I had to WDW before we joined I NEVER was put into a smoking room or one with no tub. I never even knew I had to be concerned about this. So I can get a smoke free room and tub at Pop, but not thru my DVC? UH?

Wow, I'm being very redundant.

 

[lllovell]

lol Hard NOT to be when we talk about similar things all over the boards

I agree with you Shan. I am not saying I WANT that to happen (and I HAVE sent an email to DVC with the request of making non-smoking a catagory). What I am saying is that for some of us it is less important that for others.

You have a child that needs non-smoking (if my memory serves me well today - which it might not lol) and my son takes his allergy medicine every day at home (we live in woodsy Georgia) so its not a biggie to me. Some probably would say "then ask for smoking" but that also isnt the point. I don't want a smoking or HC room, I simply am willing to have one sometimes if there is someone else that really needs my non-smoking room. For me to go down to the desk and scream and yell til I get someone else booted seems wrong to me. (I should say until I get someone that has not checked in moved to another room in the system...I know they wont boot someone already checked in)

 

[jmminarik]

I am one that would like to see smoking/non-smoking set up just like Preferred/Standard at some other resorts and hotels.

This can be a slippery slope if the catagories are seperated and point costs assessed based on these catagories. Almost definitely the smokers would get whacked for more points, and it's bad enough the politicians overtax smokers to feed their re-election pork legislation. The other way wouldn't work...it would be politically incorrect the charge non-smokers more.

-Joe

 

[lllovell]

This can be a slippery slope if the catagories are seperated and point costs assessed based on these catagories. Almost definitely the smokers would get whacked for more points, and it's bad enough the politicians overtax smokers to feed their re-election pork legislation. The other way wouldn't work...it would be politically incorrect the charge non-smokers more.

-Joe

I dont see that is has to cost any more point (nor do I think it should). I simply think that the number of non-smoking rooms is X so after X rooms have been reserved, then I should be told that I will either be getting a smoking room or I can try a different resort. For people who don't care, they would almost ALWAYS get the time they want. For people who do care, they can change their dates of travel or move to a different resort - KNOWING before they leave home what kind of room they will have. Make sense?

 

[jmminarik]

Make sense?

I hear what you're saying, but if you break it into two distinct catagories and put it on a chart, some fool who wears a suit for a living will want to muck with the numbers. Leave the chart as is, just guarantee one room type or another (with some level of certainty and plans for the 'ooops' moments).

-Joe

 

[mark&sue]

When I bought into DVC I certainly had no idea I ran the risk of not having a bath tub in the room. I bought into DVC because I was told I would get a superior room than the hotels. I was staying for two weeks at GF and was really impressed with the rooms (and bath tubs) at the models in SSR. I thought they were much better than GF and we bought 400 points there and then on the spot on our tour. I have not made a DVC trip yet and since reading these boards have started to worry.

I would have thought that HC units should have baths and showers so that non-disabled members of the family could have a bath if so desired. It maybe that in the UK we take baths more than showers??? I am not sure, but my idea of a wonderful vacation is to relax in the tub each night.

I have seen people suggest going to another hotel first and then checking in the next day. Would it work to check in to the non-requested room and then move the next day. Will DVC allow this?

Finally surely a 78 year old woman does not need a medical certificate. I know some are spritely but most 78 year olds legs do not work like teenagers legs, espeically on a Disney vacation!!! I am tired out after a day in the parks and I am only 41.



Susan

 

[lllovell]

I hear what you're saying, but if you break it into two distinct catagories and put it on a chart, some fool who wears a suit for a living will want to muck with the numbers. Leave the chart as is, just guarantee one room type or another (with some level of certainty and plans for the 'ooops' moments).

-Joe

I think we are saying the same thing (only I am making mine sound more detailed). As for someone mucking, I bet you are right! Good point.

 

[Dean]

Ok, as a new DVC member, I have been listening to this and other threads on a related topic. I have a couple questions from the seasoned veterans

First, will the front desk tell me whether the room is non smoking, handicapped, or whatever if I ask at the desk?

Second, it sounds like DVC changed their reservation policy to meet the demands of their members (early check-in, etc). What exact policies would you like me to ask DVC for? I mean please articulate what exact changes would be helpful for the reservation policy and the comfort of the guests at the resort. For example, the idea of a building or wing just for smoking rooms may be a good one or giving the option to take an HC or smoking room early or wait for a NS room. Please help me word this, so we can send these ideas to DVC for their review.

Thanks!

Unfortunately they are frequently NOT honest about these room types even when you ask them point blank. As for changing, IMO, they changed to cut costs and make it easier for the staff, not the members. Still, if used correctly, this type of room assignment would work for almost every as well, just as the old one could. The problem is poor decisions and laziness on the part of the CM involved. IF they ran it correclty and made an honest effort, only a couple of late check ins per day would be at risk of having a problem. Of course the members need to make reasonable request. Asking for a specific room or even building is simply unreasonable. IMO, DVC should only accept a max of 3 requests and they should be spelled out. Things like Smoking/NS, general floor or area (including bus stop location), multiple units near each other, HC/NHC and the like.

 

[lllovell]

Susan,

Go and check out the poll that was done about 3 weeks ago. It shows that most people get what they ask for almost all the time. I know that is not a guarantee, but it most certainly should make you feel better.

Before I bought into DVC, my heart fell through the floor reading a few threads here. What I have come to realize is that people who have issues are usually much quicker to point them out than people who have perfect vacation experiences.

As for the 78 year old needing a medical excuse - agreed. I think most problems arise from the "non-smoking" medical requests. Lets face it - most people that don't smoke don't want a smoking room. Its hard to judge who really NEEDS one, but someone with a child or an adult with severe issues should get one before me. I have no problem with that at all.

Also, the OP stated that they were moved the following day to a room that met all of her requests and the rest of her vacation went swimmingly well. So, there are instances where they have moved people when there is a problem. However, I am sure they would not simply move you if you didn't have a "need" but only a "want" without a fee.

Enjoy your DVC membership! I am sure it will live up to your every expectation!

 

[lenshanem]

Unfortunately they are frequently NOT honest about these room types even when you ask them point blank.

Yep, I know from experience.

 

[colleen costello]

llllovell, of course I don't feel "attacked." Your points DO make sense. If I was put in a smoking room, I would survive. I would be itchy and miserable and I would throw a total hissy fit, but I would survive. My poor Mom is another story. Asthma is scary stuff! My Mom packs a professional nebulizer that takes up a complete small suitcase so that if something aggravates her airways, she doesn't have to be hospitalized. Realizing that if we check in late they may ignore the fact that it says "medical nonsmoking" infuriates me!

I sure don't remember a smoky model room being part of the DVC tour. Disney is years behind on this issue and they KNOW it -- that's why no mention of these issues up front during the tour. The dumpy little hotels we stay in on the way down (in your woodsy Georgia!) guarantee us nonsmoking. DVC needs to do the same.

 

[Beca]

Crisi....thanks for the support!!! It's nice to know that people understand. I also want to stress, that I list medical non-smoking as a necessity ONLY when traveling with my mom. When it's just us....while I don't like a smoking room, I could certainly deal with it...so, it's just a regular old request. I list non-smoking (medical if Mom is going), and non-handicapped....and, I really am not stressing about that when we are in a 1bdrm...my dd is too old to need "child-proofing"....I really just need a tub.

So, I fall into both the "medical" and "just don't like" categories. And, I agree...there is a BIG difference in the way that I feel about the rooms when I am traveling with Mom, and when I am not. My mom has had her throat (and sinuses) close up on her because she was sitting next to a smoker on a plane...and, even though they were not smoking....she found herself "gasping" for air. It's really weird...it seems to be getting a lot worse as she gets older. It really scares me now.

But, if I were the mom of someone with asthma....I would be completely freaked about this as well. I teach private voice lessons, and my kids with asthma have a really hard time getting enough air to sing well. By the end of a voice lesson...their breathing is labored and noisy. These kids fight the asthma SOO hard...I would be furious if my child were an asthmatic who was placed in a room on vacation that would cause them difficulties. This is SOO sad to me....WDW is all about kids....it is senseless to stick them in a room that will make them ill.

Dr. Tomorrow...I know exactly what flight you are talking about!!! That BELOVED SWA non-stop!!!!! Woohoo!!!! My very favorite flight!!!

And yes, by the time you get to your room....well, it's "slim-pickins". Here's my solution. Since I am "cheap"....or, as I much prefer it..."points impaired" , we try to arrive on a Fri and we stay in a studio Fri and Sat. I figure, in the excitement...we are definitely eating out, and won't need laundry (unless dd's regular "WDW illness" comes early) for a couple of days. Then, on Sunday morning, we check out of our room, store our luggage and check-in for our new ONE BEDROOM!!!! Then, when we come back from the parks that evening...we have a new room, and I do a load of laundry!!! DH is not as "crazy" about this set-up as I am, but...until he buys me enough points....it is the way it is!!! (Of course, I will NEVER own enough points ). He'd better get used to studios on the weekends!!!



Beca

 

[offtheice]

I would have been more than glad to provide documentation of my mom's heart condition if that is what it would take to insure that the requests be met. That is not the current policy. My point is that MS acknowledged my requests in my confirmation, assured me that this would not be a problem and then did not follow through. Obviously, the cm working with me knew this was a snafu as soon as she looked at her computer.

While disney makes every request of everyone's needs, lets not forget nothing is guranteed and they tell you that when you make the ressie.

 

[Pixie_Dust]

...Much later she returned again and said that they really had no other options , but that if I would accept one of these rooms for the 1st night, they would move us in the morning...

First off, let me chime in that check-in is most stressful for us, too, so you are not alone.

We have had legitimate call-outs such as a NS room reeking with smoke, broken jacuzzi, broken washing machine with water flooding the room, back of curtains black with thousands of bugs, room being painted while we were in it, and *every time* they said they were completely full and we didn't have an option (even though we always go in the lowest season and the parking lot is near empty so I know they are lying!), and offered us a chance to move the next day if we wanted to (they count on the fact we would not want to waste precious vacation time re-packing, moving, and unpacking).

How is it they always claim to be completely full the day we arrive and not the next day? I think that is just the standard thing they say, and since you quoted it as happening to you verbatim to what they have said to me, it strengthens my suspicions. (The response at the front desk ranged from indifferent to rude, and I am not rude with them to begin with, so there is no possible excuse for it, except they are trained to respond that way*.) The option is to wait for a couple of hours until they come fix the problem when you are exhausted from having been traveling for 20 hours already and just want to take a shower without some staff barging in.

Add to this several times we were stuck in handicapped rooms which I wish they would give to real handicapped people instead of our having to deal with the lack of bathroom cabinet space plus zero-entry-shower = water-all-over-the-bathroom, always claiming there was no other choice of room. Once time I was told that when I made the ressie and told them smoke makes me sick, they put "medical reasons" on the ressie, which I think triggers the assignment to a handicapped room.

*Re. the front desk attitude, I read a very objectionable thread on the DVC Community Board titled "Why Castmembers Hate DVC Members!" that reminded me of all the rotten apples my husband had to remove from his store when he became store manager at a certain electronics company. They were supposed to have good customer serrvice, but they had a culture of rotten attitudes he had to get rid of before he could make the customers happy. They need to do that at DVC too rather than just reassign these people after they have polluted the staff with their poison attitudes. The one thing this person said that was true was to notice that long-time DVC-ers miss the magic of the "early days." But then she goes on to blame the members rather than seeing how their own actions/policies are causing the problems. Who is in charge of training the staff anyway? Maybe we can write them a letter.

 

[lllovell]

llllovell, of course I don't feel "attacked." Your points DO make sense. If I was put in a smoking room, I would survive. I would be itchy and miserable and I would throw a total hissy fit, but I would survive. My poor Mom is another story. Asthma is scary stuff! My Mom packs a professional nebulizer that takes up a complete small suitcase so that if something aggravates her airways, she doesn't have to be hospitalized. Realizing that if we check in late they may ignore the fact that it says "medical nonsmoking" infuriates me!

I sure don't remember a smoky model room being part of the DVC tour. Disney is years behind on this issue and they KNOW it -- that's why no mention of these issues up front during the tour. The dumpy little hotels we stay in on the way down (in your woodsy Georgia!) guarantee us nonsmoking. DVC needs to do the same.

Sometimes I know its hard to hear tones here, so I wanted to make sure you understood mine. I am all for documented medical getting their needs met first. You have my full support on that. I would not even mind at all Disney going smoke free completely (I smoke YEARS ago, but could live if I had to....sadly my mother-in-law cannot seem to live without her smokes but you can bet she will NEVER smoke in my house or hotel rooms, etc with us) but I don't know if that will happen for a long time. Until then, I really am hoping for the "non-smoking" catagory when making a ressie. Then I can make the choice if there are no more non-smoking rooms left.

 

[LIFERBABE]

Although requests are not guaranteed, I think many have brought up an excellent point!

Check-In is probably the most stressful aspect of DVC. (Besides the annual MF's bill!)

That's got to account for something, because many of us feel the same way and go to great lengths to have a more positive checkin experience, i.e. early flights, staying somewhere else the night before DVC to avoid slim pickings, worried about getting HA rooms when we didnt ask for one, etc.

Instead of complaining individually, I think we need to start showing up at the weekly meetings, stand up and tell them that we find the entire process stressful and Im sure the front desk CM's will agree. It's stressful for everyone involved and they should try to fix it. You cannot be excellent if you don't strive for continual improvement.

The biggest part of running a successful business, is managing customer expectations, and that "requests are not guaranteed" is just a cop out for sheer laziness, if Worldmark, a timeshare that can be purchased for a fraction of what DVC costs can book rooms based on categories why can't DVC?

I dont agree that it would cost us more either. If they take into account all the moving around that members do to get into their unit of choice, the waiving of the cleaning fees, having to check in the same member more than once etc. I think it would be a wash.

 

[Epcotkids]

What's the point of paying more for a ceratin "Home" resort so you can book 11 months out, if all your request are tossed aside at check in and it really boils down to who checked in first and who through the biggest fit. I understand we can't all get the best rooms, but allowing people to change the day of check-in just because they don't like what they got stinks! This is just my opinion: But, I have a feeling non-DVC memebers are more likley to get what they want. After all, if they are not happy they won't come back. We are gaunteed for what another 35 - 40 years! Too bad for us. I started another thread explaining our last two trip experiences: DVC member treatment. Very much the same concerns. Outsiders get the apologies and incentives to come back, we get the attitude.