Resort Changers--The Saga Continues.....

[WDWKOOK]

In my experience their Tower rooms have been available on previous general public room only discounts, Annual Pass rates, Bounceback rates and AAA rates.

That's been my experience, too, BUT, availability (even rack rate) has been hard to come by. I think conventions are blocking out many rooms, many months in advance and also the upcoming renovation of the 14th floor will close down those rooms for some time.

So my boyfriend and I went to Half Price Books and I found this: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3401/4610605298_25c9702b66.jpg and it had like two pages on WDW. It was from the 80s and it talked about Epcot. I was gonna buy it, but not for the two pages on WDW. lol I think it was very early 80s because I know part of the article said, "In 1982". It had a picture of the Kitchen Kabaret and some other things, but I can't recall.

And 2 days until my birthday! My co-worker, the one who sees pigs every day, brought me a little gift bag with a couple of Alice in Wonderland items from the dollar section along with a little piece of cake with a blue rose on it at work yesterday as my gift for my birthday. It was so sweet! I was almost in tears. She was off yesterday, but she came in just to give that to me. I felt so special. She brought me the gift bag yesterday because we weren't going to be working together til late next week since I'm not working on my birthday or the day after and she's off on Wednesdays.

I just had to share that with you wonderful gals since I don't really have any updates for my trip. I hope everyone else is doing well. I'm pretty exhausted from being at Six Flags all day. I'm also sorry to hear that you won't be staying at the GF, pas130!

HOT DOG! What a title. I love retro WDW stuff. I probably wouldn't use it as your definitive guide though . My favorite WDW guide is: The Complete Walt Disney World (2010), by Julie and Mike Neal. I literally have read them all, and this one is by far the best. Great detail, photos and even the paper is nice. It is full of "insider's" info. that the other guides never have.

So you went to Gurnee today? Was it crowded?

Your co-worker was so sweet to come in on her day off. It says a lot about you that she would do that for you. I can't believe that Monday is the BIG day! What are your (known) plans?

WDWKOOK;

Those are really nice pics! Maybe I might just cave in and let DS18 stay there in August...

Out of curiosity, how would you compare the CL at WL to other CL's?

Thank you. I have more WL/CL photos posted to the WL FAQ thread, CL thread and the WL photo thread.

I loved the WL/CL, but I only have the YC and CR to compare it to. So far, it's my favorite CL. It has a very large seating area that wraps around the lobby below like at the RPC. They keep the seating area very neat and tidy and there are plenty of garbage cans where guests can easily place their garbage and glassware. The food is replenished frequently and the views are amazing. We plan on staying again at Christmas

Here is the view from the CL window looking out at Bay Lake and the courtyard:

And, down to the lobby below:

 

[kaffinito]

So my boyfriend and I went to Half Price Books and I found this: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3401/4610605298_25c9702b66.jpg and it had like two pages on WDW. It was from the 80s and it talked about Epcot.

And 2 days until my birthday! My co-worker, the one who sees pigs every day, brought me a little gift bag with a couple of Alice in Wonderland items from the dollar section along with a little piece of cake with a blue rose on it at work yesterday as my gift for my birthday. It was so sweet!

I just had to share that with you wonderful gals since I don't really have any updates for my trip. I hope everyone else is doing well. I'm pretty exhausted from being at Six Flags all day. I'm also sorry to hear that you won't be staying at the GF, pas130!

That looks like a pretty cool book! I'd get it too, but I was, ahem, around during the 80's and surprisingly remember parts of it... lol

Glad you had a good time at Six Flags - sounds like fun!

That was very sweet of your coworker to do that for you

Are you excited for your birthday? Do yo have any plans?

Well when looking for their rooms with a discount we always would reserve months in advance so maybe that's why I have always seen them available. For our trip in December 2010 with the Atrium Club floor was not available with the Bounceback rate no matter what combination of days we tried, however we could have stayed on a regular floor with the Bay Lake View using the Bounceback rate. Plus we found out that information in August 2010 which was 4 months before. So that's the one time we couldn't get what we wanted. Finally let's not forget about all the conventions they host per year and sometimes those groups get their rooms blocked 1 - 2 years in advance, so that would the exception when their rooms aren't even available at the rack rate.

I know that has something to do with it. I usually don';t book a trip until within the 180 day mark, sometimes booking just a few weeks before leaving so that's probably why. Maybe this year I'll get my act together and try for a bonce back for next August for CR. I would like to stay there someday.

CR is the only resort that I haven't booked yet in any form.

Thank you. I have more WL/CL photos posted to the WL FAQ thread, CL thread and the WL photo thread.

I loved the WL/CL, but I only have the YC and CR to compare it to. So far, it's my favorite CL. It has a very large seating area that wraps around the lobby below like at the RPC. They keep the seating area very neat and tidy and there are plenty of garbage cans where guests can easily place their garbage and glassware. The food is replenished frequently and the views are amazing. We plan on staying again at Christmas

Here is the view from the CL window looking out at Bay Lake and the courtyard:

And, down to the lobby below:

Thanks for the info and the pics! So how is the food there? I heard it was rustic.

I think the only thing holding me back is the smoking situation there and the lack of accessible smoking areas. WL also looks like some of the lodges we have around here. But it would be a good choice for an August trip.....

 

[pas130]

disneydreamin247 I also think your friend is a little pushy. Probably not intentional. Maybe just think of a time when the two of you can take your babies for a walk in the a mall, and a quick lunch. Preferably when DS isn't home, so you don't have to worry about his reaction. She will understand, she's just being selfish because she wants to hug the Princess....and I'm sure she misses you!

LillianGraceyTime is flying by, almost the birthday AND trip with Gramma. Glad you had a great day at Six Flags. And it's all good. I'm started my WL research and DH is in love with the resort

kaffinitoDH is now set on WL. He seems like he has no interest in GF, he'd rather do CR. I was actually a little nervous he may not like it. When I was a work yesterday DH and the kids were checking out/planning all the activities at FW. I'm glad they are happy. And I am grateful to have my disney days.

WDWKOOK I'm going to the WL thread shortly. It's sad that I was feeling sorry for myself. I get so caught up, I don't always think practically. My DH was like "It's a really nice place, what is your problem" Then he was like look at all the things the kids can do there. I was excited he did his research He said "If I decorate the room with balloons will you be more excited" He's right, you're right. And thank you It is also our only opportunity to stay in a deluxe room since their suites don't accommodate 7 people. And we really liked FW so we have so much to do.

And I don't get anything for my birthday anymore....BUT the sky's the limit with this trip. DH says he's proud I switched so we can get cakes...and eat wherever I want. Lots of extra vacation moneyAnd a downpayment if we get a bounceback

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thanks for the info and the pics! So how is the food there? I heard it was rustic.

I think the only thing holding me back is the smoking situation there and the lack of accessible smoking areas. WL also looks like some of the lodges we have around here. But it would be a good choice for an August trip.....

Here is a link to my CL (Old Faithful Club) photos:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2319081&page=140

I wouldn't call the CL food rustic really. They do have a pulled BBQ pork that you can put on buns and every evening there is a cobbler (very tasty). The WCC has smoked meats and BBQ and biscuits and gravy for breakfast, but there are plenty of "non-rustic" foods available at the WCC, CL, RF and AP.

 

[WDWKOOK]

WDWKOOK I'm going to the WL thread shortly. It's sad that I was feeling sorry for myself. I get so caught up, I don't always think practically. My DH was like "It's a really nice place, what is your problem" Then he was like look at all the things the kids can do there. I was excited he did his research He said "If I decorate the room with balloons will you be more excited" He's right, you're right. And thank you It is also our only opportunity to stay in a deluxe room since their suites don't accommodate 7 people. And we really liked FW so we have so much to do.

And I don't get anything for my birthday anymore....BUT the sky's the limit with this trip. DH says he's proud I switched so we can get cakes...and eat wherever I want. Lots of extra vacation moneyAnd a downpayment if we get a bounceback

I'm feeling better now because you're feeling better. I know you had it in your mind that you were staying at the GF so I completely understand how hard it can be to switch gears. I think it's great that DH and the kids are now involved in the trip planning and everyone is excited. That is contagious and I know you're starting to feel their excitement along with them.

The GF isn't going anywhere and should definitely be on your list for a future visit. I love all the activities at FTW, and it's so easy to get there from the WL. It's like a whole other vacation over there. Here's a link to a great WL website (though not updated frequently) with more photos and info:

http://www.wildernesslodgesite.com/content/other-activities

I love your Bounceback idea

 

[ClareH37]

Thank you so much for all the WL information WDWKook

I've just cancelled my last 2 nights at the AKL CL and booked WL CL, I've never stayed there before, although I do still have the Poly CL reservation as well I prefer being in one building so I think the WL will suit me better, I've now discounted the GF as I've stayed there before and this trip is meant to be a trip of 'firsts'.

I think I'm finally making a decision on my last 2 nights lol

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thank you so much for all the WL information WDWKook

I've just cancelled my last 2 nights at the AKL CL and booked WL CL, I've never stayed there before, although I do still have the Poly CL reservation as well I prefer being in one building so I think the WL will suit me better, I've now discounted the GF as I've stayed there before and this trip is meant to be a trip of 'firsts'.

I think I'm finally making a decision on my last 2 nights lol

Congratulations on booking the WL/CL! I know you will love it. I hope you've seen my CL photo links and WL website link.

Unlike the AKL (unless you're in a suite), you'll actually be on the CL floor at the WL. I know this was important to you.

If you have any questions, I'm happy to try and answer them for you

 

[ClareH37]

Congratulations on booking the WL/CL! I know you will love it. I hope you've seen my CL photo links and WL website link.

Unlike the AKL (unless you're in a suite), you'll actually be on the CL floor at the WL. I know this was important to you.

If you have any questions, I'm happy to try and answer them for you

Thanks, I think I'll love it there too

I've got a couple of questions which I'd really appreciate some advice on

I hate elevators and from the photos I've been looking at (including yours) there appears to be stairs, I'm assuming guests can use these and they aren't just 'service' stairs?

Also, I'm thinking if I go to MVMCP my last night and catch the boat back, is the walk back OK for a solo?

Thanks

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thanks, I think I'll love it there too

I've got a couple of questions which I'd really appreciate some advice on

I hate elevators and from the photos I've been looking at (including yours) there appears to be stairs, I'm assuming guests can use these and they aren't just 'service' stairs?

Also, I'm thinking if I go to MVMCP my last night and catch the boat back, is the walk back OK for a solo?

Thanks

The stairs you're referring to from my photos can be used, however, the CL stair has a small gate which is locked. You can exit it, but not enter it, unless someone opens it for you. But, when my DD (finally) wakes-up, I'll ask for clarification on this because she used them while I sat in the lounge.

There are "regular" stairs located along each hallway, in the middle and at the end. However, I'm going to assume that the door to CL is locked in order to restrict access by non-CL guests. There are three sets of elevators. One set (of two) is directly between the lounge and the concierge desk to the far right in this photo where the man is standing:

And there is one set toward the middle of the wings on each side of the courtyard.

The walk back from the boat dock is well lit and there is a nice path that you should feel safe on. It's highly unlikely that you would be the only one walking back. Usually there are many groups of people walking about.

 

[pas130]

I'm feeling better now because you're feeling better. I know you had it in your mind that you were staying at the GF so I completely understand how hard it can be to switch gears. I think it's great that DH and the kids are now involved in the trip planning and everyone is excited. That is contagious and I know you're starting to feel their excitement along with them.

The GF isn't going anywhere and should definitely be on your list for a future visit. I love all the activities at FTW, and it's so easy to get there from the WL. It's like a whole other vacation over there. Here's a link to a great WL website (though not updated frequently) with more photos and info:

http://www.wildernesslodgesite.com/content/other-activities

I love your Bounceback idea

Thanks for the link and THANK YOU for the moral support . Looks like the deluxe rooms all are at the end of the hall. Which means my views from the balcony will be great. We did the cabins, and loved FW And they pipe in the music over there for the fireworks on the beach which was really nice. The kids played in the sand waiting for Wishes to start. And I agree their excitement is VERY contagious Just when I thought I was done switching

 

[ClareH37]

The stairs you're referring to from my photos can be used, however, the CL stair has a small gate which is locked. You can exit it, but not enter it, unless someone opens it for you. But, when my DD (finally) wakes-up, I'll ask for clarification on this because she used them while I sat in the lounge.

There are "regular" stairs located along each hallway, in the middle and at the end. However, I'm going to assume that the door to CL is locked in order to restrict access by non-CL guests. There are three sets of elevators. One set (of two) is directly between the lounge and the concierge desk to the far right in this photo where the man is standing:

And there is one set toward the middle of the wings on each side of the courtyard.

The walk back from the boat dock is well lit and there is a nice path that you should feel safe on. It's highly unlikely that you would be the only one walking back. Usually there are many groups of people walking about.

Fantastic, thank you I'm Ok with elevators for 1 or 2 floors but I hate anything more than that, so I might walk a few floors and then get the elevator to the CL floor - crazy I know lol

 

[kaffinito]

Well I started off this morning with "Switching to WL fever" and ended it with switching out of WDW entirely.

I'm thinking of either Portofino Bay or Royal Pacific. It would be $100 more for one extra night.

I keep putting our US/IOA trip off, and I did buy an AP for there so...

What do you guys think? It would be CL there...

 

[Lillian Gracey]

That's been my experience, too, BUT, availability (even rack rate) has been hard to come by. I think conventions are blocking out many rooms, many months in advance and also the upcoming renovation of the 14th floor will close down those rooms for some time.



HOT DOG! What a title. I love retro WDW stuff. I probably wouldn't use it as your definitive guide though . My favorite WDW guide is: The Complete Walt Disney World (2010), by Julie and Mike Neal. I literally have read them all, and this one is by far the best. Great detail, photos and even the paper is nice. It is full of "insider's" info. that the other guides never have.

So you went to Gurnee today? Was it crowded?

Your co-worker was so sweet to come in on her day off. It says a lot about you that she would do that for you. I can't believe that Monday is the BIG day! What are your (known) plans?

I wasn't going to buy it as a guide because it isn't. lol I just wanted it because it has to do with Disney and it's retro! I have the unofficial guide and I recently ordered Passporter's on their website so I should be getting that in soon. It would be great if it came in tomorrow!

And it wasn't that crowded. Our longest waits were like 40 minutes, but they were for the stupid rides like Ragin Cajun and Whizzer. We rode Iron Wolf front row twice in a row when we got there because no one was in line. We could have gotten on Batman right away, but my brothers wanted to go in the front row. lol I can't wait to go back. I miss riding roller coasters.

Thanks! And I can't believe it either! It's here already! I'm going to be taking a shower and straightening my hair tonight so it looks nice for my new drivers license photo tomorrow. I want to look pretty! At 11:11am I will officially be 21! Regarding plans, I will be going to dinner with my family (minus my dad), my gramma and grampa and my boyfriend. My dad won't be able to make it because he has to cover the Bulls game, but I think we will be doing something for lunch. It depends on his schedule. I'm ok with him missing it because I'm grateful that he didn't almost miss my actual birth unlike my second brother. lol Luckily, he was able to get there in time. After dinner my boyfriend and I will go to Gameworks so I can be there after 9pm since that's when it turns 21+ and then we are gonna head on over to Dave and Busters to play games.

LillianGraceyTime is flying by, almost the birthday AND trip with Gramma. Glad you had a great day at Six Flags. And it's all good. I'm started my WL research and DH is in love with the resort

I can't believe it's already here! I leave in 8 days! I need to start packing! I also need to figure out what I'm gonna wear. I have enough Alice in Wonderland shirts to last me at least two weeks.

That looks like a pretty cool book! I'd get it too, but I was, ahem, around during the 80's and surprisingly remember parts of it... lol

Glad you had a good time at Six Flags - sounds like fun!

That was very sweet of your coworker to do that for you

Are you excited for your birthday? Do yo have any plans?

Haha! I wouldn't mind getting it, but not for $2. I'm not going to pay $2 for 2 pages on Disney World.

I'm so ecstatic! I can't wait! I've got dinner plans with the family and then playing games at Gameworks and Dave and Busters!

 

[kaffinito]

I can't believe it's already here! I leave in 8 days! I need to start packing! I also need to figure out what I'm gonna wear. I have enough Alice in Wonderland shirts to last me at least two weeks.

Haha! I wouldn't mind getting it, but not for $2. I'm not going to pay $2 for 2 pages on Disney World.

I'm so ecstatic! I can't wait! I've got dinner plans with the family and then playing games at Gameworks and Dave and Busters!

It sounds like you have a really nice birthday planned! Have a wonderful birthday!

 

[Lillian Gracey]

It sounds like you have a really nice birthday planned! Have a wonderful birthday!

Thanks so much! I can't wait!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Well I started off this morning with "Switching to WL fever" and ended it with switching out of WDW entirely.

I'm thinking of either Portofino Bay or Royal Pacific. It would be $100 more for one extra night.

I keep putting our US/IOA trip off, and I did buy an AP for there so...

What do you guys think? It would be CL there...

I can help reduce the WL fever, but you are totally out of my element with PB and RP. I did start the Waldorf Astoria/Hilton Bonnet Creek thread back in '09, but I never even ended-up staying there. We always stay onsite so I'm sorry I can't be of any help. Can you see yourself staying offsite and busing or driving to WDW everyday? Would the family be OK with that? I'll bet the CL would be a real CL, so I am all for that

I wasn't going to buy it as a guide because it isn't. lol I just wanted it because it has to do with Disney and it's retro! I have the unofficial guide and I recently ordered Passporter's on their website so I should be getting that in soon. It would be great if it came in tomorrow!

And it wasn't that crowded. Our longest waits were like 40 minutes, but they were for the stupid rides like Ragin Cajun and Whizzer. We rode Iron Wolf front row twice in a row when we got there because no one was in line. We could have gotten on Batman right away, but my brothers wanted to go in the front row. lol I can't wait to go back. I miss riding roller coasters.

Thanks! And I can't believe it either! It's here already! I'm going to be taking a shower and straightening my hair tonight so it looks nice for my new drivers license photo tomorrow. I want to look pretty! At 11:11am I will officially be 21! Regarding plans, I will be going to dinner with my family (minus my dad), my gramma and grampa and my boyfriend. My dad won't be able to make it because he has to cover the Bulls game, but I think we will be doing something for lunch. It depends on his schedule. I'm ok with him missing it because I'm grateful that he didn't almost miss my actual birth unlike my second brother. lol Luckily, he was able to get there in time. After dinner my boyfriend and I will go to Gameworks so I can be there after 9pm since that's when it turns 21+ and then we are gonna head on over to Dave and Busters to play games. ]

What a great day/evening you have planned, Hannah. You're off, right? I hope you're off Tuesday, too since Monday's festivities sound like they might flow right into Tuesday.

Have fun, be safe and post a b-day photo when you get a chance. We'll all be thinking about you tomorrow and wishing you the happiest birthday

 

[Lillian Gracey]

I can help reduce the WL fever, but you are totally out of my element with PB and RP. I did start the Waldorf Astoria/Hilton Bonnet Creek thread back in '09, but I never even ended-up staying there. We always stay onsite so I'm sorry I can't be of any help. Can you see yourself staying offsite and busing or driving to WDW everyday? Would the family be OK with that? I'll bet the CL would be a real CL, so I am all for that




What a great day/evening you have planned, Hannah. You're off, right? I hope you're off Tuesday, too since Monday's festivities sound like they might flow right into Tuesday.

Have fun, be safe and post a b-day photo when you get a chance. We'll all be thinking about you tomorrow and wishing you the happiest birthday

I do have Tuesday off. Which is why I'm grateful my birthday is on Monday. 99.9% of the time I have Tuesdays off. I won't be doing a lot of celebrating. I just want at least one appletini so I can dedicate to JD from Scrubs. LOVE Scrubs. <3 <3 <3

I will be safe, I will take a picture and I will be wearing a tiara! I am going to be a princess for a day. Thanks so much. It feels great to know people care.

 

[disneydreamin247]

Thanks for the advice everyone! I'm trying to keep up but we've had a busy day and little miss is a super cranky pants. If I didn't know better I'd swear she was cutting teeth already. She's slobbering all over her tiny fists and cranky beyond reason.

 

[WDWKOOK]

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HANNAH's 21!​

It's your birthday! Today you're 21!
You're going out to Dave & Busters and have lots of fun.
Good times, laughter and fun you will make.
Just don't forget to eat lots and lots of cake!

(That's the best I can do at 6 am)

 

[kaffinito]

HAPPY

BIRTHDAY

HANNAH!!!!​

Have a wonderful Birthday today!