resort dilema

[gibbys1]

I had decided on the Dolpin for our upcoming trip April 17-27,2003. I was able to reserve at the government rate of 139. I have always wanted to stay at CBR because that theme appeals to me but it was not available for our dates. Last week I called to see if any rooms had opened up and they had not but I was offered a discounted rate of 119 at CSR. It sounded like a great deal but now i realize that it is only a savings of 175 over the Dolphin. What would you do stay at CSR or go with the Dolphin? Thanks!

 

[epcotfan]

Ok here's my take on things. I was in a similar situation. I had a room reserved at the gov't rate at the Dolphin for 9 nights up until today. Then the new codes came out yesterday. For some reason I just couldn't get into the idea of staying at the Dolphin even though it has a great location and is a deluxe hotel. The atmosphere doesn't appeal to me....SO we ended up booking Animal Kingdom Lodge for the same rate since we haven't stayed there yet. I also would have gladly accepted CBR or CSR if they didn't have the AKL availability. We originally tried for the Contemporary but they were sold out. I guess for me I like all the Disney theming and atmosphere. I feel sooooo much better now that I'm staying at a Disney hotel again.

Now I love CSR and chose the Dolphin because we were eligable for the lower rate. But I just couldn't get into it and didn't like the idea of sharing buses with other hotels. I was actually having dreams about staying at CSR or another Disney Hotel.
I guess it comes down to convenience and the ammenities you need.

I would try phoning for Caribbean Beach again if that is what you have your heart set on. I bet some people have upgraded from CBR due to the new codes and perhaps some rooms have opened up because of it.

CSR is a lovely resort but it doesn't appeal to everyone. I have pictures on my site along with some video. I hope to return in the summer.

I'm sure many will suggest the Dolphin due to the location and deluxe ammenities.

It is a tough decision.

 

[ducklite]

When comparing prices, are you including tax and the Dolphin's $10 per day resort fee? That might make a difference to you.

The Dolphin's advantage is the location--walking distance to MGM and Epcot, plus two quuens in each room--CSR will only have two doubles. Also with interior corridors you be able to leave teh drapes open in your room and still have privacy.

The CSR's advantage is the ability to room charge all over property.

Frankly if it were my choice I'd choose the Dolphin. A deluxe in a great location over a moderate, for not a whole lot more $$.

Anne

 

[LvsTnk]

I would definately take the AKL over the Dolphin, but the Dolphin over CBR. Those are opinions of course.

 

[Hawk]

gibbys1- how were you getting a discount rate at CSR for those dates?

Hawk.

 

[gibbys1]

Thanks for all the advice. Yes it is a hard decision. I better hurry up and make up my mind. On one hand, I like the idea of the Dolphin's location and on the other, I want to stay at a Disney resort. Hawk, I was offered the discounted rate of 119 at CSR when there were no rooms for my dates at the CBR. This is how I began to be undecided betwwen the Dolphin and the CSR. Thanks again!

 

[Tiiiigergirl]

Last year we stayed at the Dolphin and I can say we really missed being at a Disney hotel. I can't explain exactly except that it just wasn't the same.

 

[epcotfan]

Originally posted by ducklite
The Dolphin's advantage is the location--walking distance to MGM and Epcot, plus two queens in each room....Anne

Actually the Dolphin only has double beds in the room.

 

[ducklite]

Originally posted by epcotfan
Actually the Dolphin only has double beds in the room.

I was under the impression that thye've been replacing them all with the queen sized "Heavenly Beds". You're right, the unrenovated rooms have only doubles though. Anyone been there in a renovated room know for sure?

Anne