poly concierge not worth it

[Threehearts]

I actually spoke to a female manager(don't remember her name) but was told that the Poly was full and that she would speak to someone but that they were straight out. Perhaps they were. I am not saying that Poly concierge can't be wonderful but I stick to my feeling that service is slipping and I don't want to feel that someone is doing me a favor by providing basic answers to questions. I have stayed in concierge at the Poly many times and for the most part have been very pleased but I will explore other resorts on the next visit. Susan

 

[Tikiman]

It is always good to check out other resorts. I hope the manager understands your concerns and will do something about them.

Thanks for the reply Susan.

Aloha

Steve

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by BambiTamby
*PM #1hockeymom about the security of staying concierge, especially when traveling solo.
She'll fill you in on that!

I "THIRD" that recommendation!! ~ "SECURITY" is definitely one of the MAIN reasons I choose Concierge, especially when traveling alone. I do not even care whether I am able to use or benefit from all of the services associated with this level of accomodation. I just personally prefer the daily "interaction and socialization" with the Concierge staff. This "bond" creates a link of familiarity between the guest and the associates representing the property. They quickly come to "care" about us, and are concerned with our satisfaction/safety while visiting their location. They make us feel special, without a doubt. This connection/relationship is comforting. I enjoy the initial "meeting" between the Concierge personnel and myself (and/or family), where we exchange full/nick names, preferences, and plans. Most times, I initiate this process well in advance, so the Concierge is anticipating our arrival.

DD & I are traveling to Europe (London & Paris) this November for 2 & 1/2 weeks. I have been very busy reserving Concierge Suites in centrally located/upscale 5-star properties. I have spoken with the Concierge/Management personally, to secure all the necessities in advance. From the First class air/rail travel, to chauffered limos & helicoptors (Sikorsky S76B), I have alleviated the usual fear associated with the "unknown" (the worst enemy of the improperly prepared traveler). Most of the properties we visit, house Concierge accomodations in a "secure" upper floor area, (sometimes only accessible by a card-swipe in the elevator). Most all are located in the center of the building, and many have security officers on duty 24/7.

This added benefit is PRICELESS! I plan to ask Concierge to assist us in every measure while in Europe. If we do not return by a specified time, they will be instructed/requested to call my cell phone. I used this method the last time I was in Las Vegas/NYC alone (W/GF), and it worked like a charm (The staff of the Plaza hotel are absolutely THE BEST!!). I received personal assistance comparable to this from the Concierge staff @ the YC. I phoned them several times from different locations on property, to check on times/reservations and transportation. They were always friendly & proficient. Such aspects truly "MAKE" my stay. DH would be hesitant to permit DD & I to travel solo around Europe if I did not possess the experience and assistance of resort CONCIERGE angels. They are so adept in maneuvering the area, and assisting with plans/schedules w/respect to traveling & sightseeing...it is impressive.

Even at the Castles we are visiting, we have reserved suites in the main building. I have also planned everything from Spa Treatments to breakfast in bed & 5~course dining adventures in advance. The benefits of CONCIERGE, IMHO, extend well beyond the food/bev offerings and reservation abilities. Why else would "high profile & Political" figures stay Concierge everywhere they travel? The only thing better, would be my own SS staff member...but that would "cramp" my style a bit!!

BambiTamby...I hope everything (W/respect to your plans) is "ironed" out before your arrival!

Pattymouse~WOW! Congrats on your upcoming ANNIVERSARY!!
Your plans sound fabulous. The attitude you exude all but insures you will experience true MAGIC & WONDER of the Holiday Season beyond your wildest expectations! Also...keep in mind, "Wishes and Dreams" are NEVER silly. They are but little golden drops of LIFE yet to be fulfilled. I wish you OVERFLOWING handfulls of Brass Rings and Infinite memories to carry you through the next 25 years together!! Have a fabulous time on your journey/visit!

hookedup~Hi, C.J.
ARGH!! I had NO IDEA this happened to you at the GF!!! Unacceptable...100%! I hope you took the names of these two, and wrote a letter to WDW corporate office. This is the very thing which should NEVER happen at check-in, whether it be CL or regular!! Sorry you had such a negative experience, (causing DH to NIX future Concierge stays).

Perhaps someone from the POLY resort management staff will read this thread, and "brief" the Concierge staff with respect to the concerns posted. What a wonderful source of information this DIS board provides. I appreciate all the comments, and learn something new every time I visit!

TTFN...DF99

 

[Threehearts]

Hey dreamflight99-

Are you expecting a serious security breach while in Europe? Having a European husband and traveling myself there quite often, I have never felt that I(or my children) were quite so at risk. While we often stay in concierge in lovely properties, I can usually manage fairly well with the Guide Michelin and some recommendations. I am not being sarcastic but your response made me rethink the security issue. Threehearts

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by Threehearts
Hey dreamflight99-

Are you expecting a serious security breach while in Europe? Having a European husband and traveling myself there quite often, I have never felt that I(or my children) were quite so at risk. While we often stay in concierge in lovely properties, I can usually manage fairly well with the Guide Michelin and some recommendations. I am not being sarcastic but your response made me rethink the security issue. Threehearts

No...not at all. But, I am one whom prefers to remain on the "safe side" *(better there...than sorry). I am aways alert (Hey...I'm FROM NY), and on the lookout for possible problems. After all, it only takes "once" (to ruin your trip...or life). I feel better using a multitude of precautions, which then permit me to "relax" more and enjoy myself. I hope I never have to use the multiple airbags in my vehicle...but it's nice knowing they are there. The implementation of such safety precautions permit me to RELAX a bit...and enjoy the ride/drive. I enjoy horseback riding/jumping, but never completely relax in the saddle. I also do not rely solely upon location and reputation to alleviate all of my apprehension/caution (when traveling). I put faith in God, and his grace. Aside from this, I am always aware of my surroundings, and situations (even in a subliminal sense). After all, God helps those...whom help themselves.

I never feel completely "absolved" because I am staying in a lovely property in an upscale location, on Concierge level. Things can (and do) happen everywhere. I use a combination of common sense, and those tiny hairs on the back of my neck (10,000 years of evolution has never let me down!). I've traveled all over this country, and abroad. I've been stalked, encountered convicted predators, and have been assaulted over the course of my life. I write/speak from experience. Yet, even with this in mind, most persons choose to toss caution to the wind. I never "expect" anything to happen. I merely prepare, in the course anything "does" happen.

DF99

 

[TinkerChelle]

I am freaking out a bit here, people. This isn't what I wanted to read this morning. We are staying Poly GVC for 8 days...5 adults and 2 kids in two rooms. I had to convince my family that it would be a "treat" to stay concierge. I have been emailing with Marilyn who is helping me plan some special things because we are celebrating two different birthdays during our stay. Now I am worried that these plans will not be followed through with! Oh well. All I can do is send another email confirming all the arrangements and hope for the best. Geez...at the least I would expect friendly faces and attitudes. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

 

[Beachangel]

Originally posted by TinkerChelle
I am freaking out a bit here, people. This isn't what I wanted to read this morning. We are staying Poly GVC for 8 days...5 adults and 2 kids in two rooms. I had to convince my family that it would be a "treat" to stay concierge. I have been emailing with Marilyn who is helping me plan some special things because we are celebrating two different birthdays during our stay. Now I am worried that these plans will not be followed through with! Oh well. All I can do is send another email confirming all the arrangements and hope for the best. Geez...at the least I would expect friendly faces and attitudes. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

There are more good reviews than bad so don't worry. I only stay at AKL CL - it was was first CL experience and I just can't change after three years. The CMs there are great.

 

[denman007]

TinkerChelle,

I dealt with Marilyn many times when we were there last week. She was wonderful. You don't need to worry about anything.

 

[BambiTamby]

Marilyn, Melissa, Kathy, and Aida are wonderful IPO CMs!
You don't have to worry!

Relax and go have a wonderful time!

 

[Threehearts]

It is always good to hear differing opinions of resort stays and as another poster said, there are more positive than negative reports re: Poly concierge. I was one of the negative reporters this time but certainly listen to some of the strategies on this and other threads and I'm sure you'll you have a pleasant visit.

I may be way off here but I do think it is great to tell your family that concierge is a bit of a treat but I would be careful not to describe it as "out of this world", an "all-day buffet" or a guaranteed complimentary birthday suprise(not that you would). I believe a lot of the let-down is when perceptions do not match the reality. Have a wonderful visit!! Threehearts

 

[bhillier]

I stayed in May and the concierge staff were very helpful. I wanted a Mickey in the room upon arrival. It was not there but after I brought it to the CM attention they brought Mickey up right away with balloons and a chocolate bar with a picture of the poly on the front. My family loved it. The concierge staff got us those very hard to get ressies for breakfast @ the castle. They were the early ressies that I was not able to get myself. I forgot my key a few times and they opened my door for me. Never irritated. Very nice. Chef Dick was awesome as were the other members of the concierge lounge.

I think it's such a treat to stay Poly,cl. The lounge is a wonderful place to see the morning sun, lake and castle. At night when the castle is lit up.....well it's just beautiful. I don't think that every single thinng can be perfect all the time but I think that you will be happy with your choice. It really is a wonderful resort. The concierge staff is fantastic. Enjoy your trip. Try not to worry. I think you will have an awesome time.

p.s. go over to tikiman's site. He has the best pictures and info on Poly. Everytime I visit his site I miss the Poly (and concierge) and start planning to return

 

[TinkerChelle]

Thanks for all the encouraging words everyone. I am glad to hear that everyone has had good luck when dealing with Marilyn. She has been nothing but helpful and courteous....so I won't frett about it anymore. I think I may have overplanned a little.....I shouldn't be stressing about a WDW vacation for crying out loud!