Polynesian Handicap Rooms (or not)

[Goofy4]

My folks will be using wheelchairs at WDW but don't have an absolute need for a "handicap" equipped room.

I found a site showing the Poly as having 5 handicap equiped rooms. That's not correct, is it? There were other incorrect "facts" there, so I doubt the number.

If I request a handicap room, does that greatly influence/limit the location (longhouse), or am I better off asking for a room near the GCH, or perhaps asking specifically for Samoa or Rarotonga -- or perhaps for all the above?

I'm just not sure "how and what to ask for". Thanks!

 

[BCV23]

If having a rollin shower is necessary for your parents, then you should certainly request one through special needs.

But it sounds like they may not need that? What would help them? There are also some accessible rooms at the Polynesian with accessible bathrooms with a tub. Those bathrooms are configured differently than regular rooms at the Polynesian. They have a wide open design and both the toliet and tub have grab bars.

Most if not all of the accessible rooms are in Rapa Nui. Many years ago my daughter and I were shown an accessible room in Tokelau but it was so long ago that I don't remember if it was rollin or tub. It may not even be an accessible room anymore because all anyone ever mentions is the rooms in Rapa Nui and those are the only ones we've had as well. It is very convenient to the TTC and there is a parking lot right in front of it.

You can also order a shower stool if that would help them.

We were recently told that some rooms in Hawaii, the concierge building will be made accessible. And there is an accessible suite now in Tonga.

I don't know the total # of accessible rooms although I have seen it somewhere. A CM at the Polynesian recently told me that there were only 4 accessible rooms but I think that might be the number with rollin showers. I think we've been in all four over the years. We also have stayed in accessible rooms with tubs when my daughter was still very young.

I would first think of safety in the bathroom if I were you. If they are fine using regular bathrooms, then perhaps request Raratonga because it is very close to the GCH and the bus stop.

Hope this helps a little.

 

[Goofy4]

Primarily we want to avoid long walks... I'm sure they would enjoy *not* using the wheelchairs, except for the parks.

I didn't want to make the mistake of asking for an accessible room, only to find out that it's nowhere near the GCH. And if there aren't many available, there's no sense in taking one away from someone who really needs it. They could use the extra hand grips and perhaps larger bathroom, but the rest of the features would probably be of limited value.

 

[BCV23]

Rapa Nui is not near the GCH. Probably a 4 or 5 minute walk tops though.

Have you asked them what they want? If they want bars in the tub/shower or by the toilet, then when you call to make a reservation, explain that and I think they will connect you with special needs.

I didn't mean the bathrooms in the accessible rooms were larger overall. Rather it is one larger open space unlike the regular bathrooms which have a privacy wall for the toilet, etc.. The bathrooms are just configured differently. I don't know if there is a difference in total area.

If they don't want the extra bars, I would ask for Raratonga if you are trying to minimize steps to the GCH and I would also mention that when you make your reservation.