Room Snob?

[hunter6009]

I keep looking at pictures of the rooms that people have posted in the past and remembering the rooms at the resorts I've stayed at thus far (Contemporary and POFQ) and I'm just not impressed at all! What gives?! You would think for close to $350 a night for most deluxe resorts you'd get...well...a deluxe room! Most of them look outdated, run down, with poor designs/artwork/bedding. Am I just a room snob or something? Sheesh, The Four Seasons in Maui was $400/night and it blows any Disney resort away! Same for every Vegas hotel I've been to...Venetian, Bellagio... Am I just not finding the right resort photos? Can someone tell me which resort I should be looking at? For the $$$ we spend on a deluxe resort I should feel like I'm back in Maui at the Four Seasons...not at Holiday Inn.

Hope I'm not offending, but I need some advice from more experienced resort stayers at Disney!

Thanks!

 

[KatMark]

I'm not sure what a resort snob is. We aren't too particular about our rooms as long as they are clean and well presented. We too do not like the look of a lot of the rooms, but only because the pattern or design did not impress us...not that it didn't look like it was worth the $350 or $400 they charged...just not our taste (such as the Floridian, Beach Club). We love the rooms at the Poly, but we prefer staying at the CSR. We've stayed at the Venetian in Vegas and I didn't like the room decor at all (prefer the MGM myself).

 

[DisneyBride'03]

I keep looking at pictures of the rooms that people have posted in the past and remembering the rooms at the resorts I've stayed at thus far (Contemporary and POFQ) and I'm just not impressed at all! What gives?! You would think for close to $350 a night for most deluxe resorts you'd get...well...a deluxe room! Most of them look outdated, run down, with poor designs/artwork/bedding. Am I just a room snob or something? Sheesh, The Four Seasons in Maui was $400/night and it blows any Disney resort away! Same for every Vegas hotel I've been to...Venetian, Bellagio... Am I just not finding the right resort photos? Can someone tell me which resort I should be looking at? For the $$$ we spend on a deluxe resort I should feel like I'm back in Maui at the Four Seasons...not at Holiday Inn.

Hope I'm not offending, but I need some advice from more experienced resort stayers at Disney!

Thanks!

Well, be prepared for all kinds of responses
I think Disney factors in location of the resort into their prices...location, location.
THe rooms at CR have been renovated, the photos I have seen, very chic. SSR is a newer resort, the rooms , I thought were elegant.

One thing to consider, comparing rooms at a 4 Seasons, Holiday INN and WDW..is perhaps like comparing apples to oranges.
THere are different factors with the WDW rooms....perks with staying onsite...etc
While I have paid upwards in price to stay at some deluxe resorts, I would not pay the same to stay in a hotel in Chicago..lol..The closer you get to the parks, the higher the cost of the room.
Good luck in finding you answers

 

[surfergirl602]

Never done deluxe. Sorry, I can't be of more help, but I am very interested in seeing what time of replies you get.... for future reference, of course!

 

[vtwep]

everyone has their own tastes and expectations, so there is no "right" answer.

That said...part of what you are paying for in Disney is Disney - the location, the feel, the monorail, the transportation, the views (in some cases), the service, etc.

In Maui you are paying for the room and location and service.

So, it all depends on what you are looking for. We stayed at YC last year and thought it was excellent. Have we stayed at nicer hotels? Yes...and they were cheaper. But those weren't a 5 minute walk to Epcot or a 2 minute drive to DHS and we didn't have a nice dining plan that we could use at their signature steakhouse, and we couldn't sit on our balcony eating ice cream while watching Illuminations, etc.

So, no, you're probably not a snob - but your expectation level may just need to be adjusted to include WHERE the hotel is located.

And Vegas doesn't count...they know they are taking your money at the tables...

Just my opinion...

 

[hunter6009]

BTW, I meant am I the room snob...not anyone else for sure! I just don't want anyone to take offense to their beloved resort (which I have nothing against any of the resorts...most of them are gorgeous...just not happy with the actual rooms thus far).

A room snob, I suppose, is someone who gets hung up on what their room looks like. I guess that's me! I have an infant, so with naps and such I tend to actually be IN the room. I'd like for it to look nice I suppose.

It just kills me that I've paid these prices for top places in the country (and overseas) and the rooms look similar to much less expensive hotel chains (such as the Holiday Inn comment).

Maybe I'm just not seeing the right place for me yet...

Anywho, on with the post!

 

[hunter6009]

everyone has their own tastes and expectations, so there is no "right" answer.

That said...part of what you are paying for in Disney is Disney - the location, the feel, the monorail, the transportation, the views (in some cases), the service, etc.

In Maui you are paying for the room and location and service.

So, it all depends on what you are looking for. We stayed at YC last year and thought it was excellent. Have we stayed at nicer hotels? Yes...and they were cheaper. But those weren't a 5 minute walk to Epcot or a 2 minute drive to DHS and we didn't have a nice dining plan that we could use at their signature steakhouse, and we couldn't sit on our balcony eating ice cream while watching Illuminations, etc.

So, no, you're probably not a snob - but your expectation level may just need to be adjusted to include WHERE the hotel is located.

And Vegas doesn't count...they know they are taking your money at the tables...

Just my opinion...

Some good points! Well noted...I just wish they'd update the rooms to reflect some of the $ you spend. I think they've outdone themselves on their cruise staterooms (they're some of the largest, have wonderful set-ups, etc) but why not the resorts?

 

[livndisney]

hmmm,

I think it is a matter of personal opinion. When I go to WDW, I don't spend a lot of time in the room. (I think alot of people feel this way). I really only want a clean place to shower and sleep. I don't need all the frills. The draw for me is the parks, shopping etc. I LOVE the themeing of the resorts. I love walking the grounds. I have stayed at all resort levels at WDW, many hotels in Vegas and 5 star hotels around the world. I love that a family can stay on property for less than $100 a night.

 

[bluwater]

Hunter, the rate is probably based 75% on the location, 15% on theming and and 10% on the room (or somewhere in that area).

You really have to try to ignore the lack of deluxe amenities in the rooms. Yes, the pillows are foam and the sheets are 180 thread count (ugh!). The bathrooms are basic. The furnishings are standard.

Yes, you can stay in the Four Seasons Maui (or, even better, Four Seasons Nevis) for the same rate and be on the beach in true Deluxe style.....but Disney can always fill their rooms at these rates and people are willing to pay. Supply and demand keep it going.

By the way- I read in the "unnofical Guide" last night that the Grand Floridian has the worst pillows of all of the resorts. Go figure.

 

[vtwep]

I understand. I know some renovations have been going on the past few years so hopefully you'll hit your "right" room on your next trip! We started at Deluxe and we're now stuck on it. We're doing GF on our next trip and Poly after that. Then who knows... We spend some time in the rooms and resorts as well, so I know exactly what you mean.

Good luck with your quest...I hope you find one that makes you happy and you can enjoy your trip to the fullest!

 

[perla75]

Based similar comments I've seen on other threads, I think most of the people who aren't impressed with WDW deluxe resort rooms are those people who have had alot of experience with "regular" (non-WDW) deluxe resorts. I"ve read alot of people say that rooms at WDW deluxes are much lower quality than an average 5 star hotel (and more expensive!). Personally, I think WDW spends more money and effort into their theming than into the quality of the beds, anemities, etc...

That said, I am somebody who does not have too much experience with non-WDW deluxe resorts so I cannot compare, but I am a major mattress snob wherever I stay. My DF doesnt notice the difference, but I can definately tell the difference between a good quality mattress and a cheaper one. and I found there to be a HUGE difference between the mattresses and CBR vs. AKL!

 

[irishjules]

Didn't offend me at all...I am just a hotel snob...I love any and all hotels mostly because of the maid service and I do tip them everyday! As long as the hotel room is clean and fresh - it doesn't matter how much I have paid. I feel like I am paying for the hotel ammenities like pools, location, restaurants, health club, etc.

Although I have been fortunate enough to stay in many 5 star hotels around the world and I have slept in hostels and airports and park benches too...I do love the Disney rooms because they are clean, close to the parks and loads of fun with beautiful landscaping and the housekeeping takes care of me (but I do prefer moderates or deluxes but stay at values often)! Did I mention I hate cleaning house so a hotel is right up my alley!

 

[minnie61650]

The Swan/Dolphin offen has great rates that cost about as much as a Disney Moderate.

They are real 4 star hotels complete with triple sheeting, Down pillows and Down comforters! They have stellar customer service and 24 hour room service.

The Swan and Dolphin are Deluxe resorts but not as expensive as Disney's deluxe resorts.



The heavenly beds are ...well heavenly.

The Grotto pool and hot tubs are fun and relaxing.

Plus Epcot and MGM are just a short boat ride or walk away!

From Epcot hop on the monorail and head on over to the MK!

*note photos are from allearsnet

Have fun at Disney wherever you choose to stay!

 

[Minnie]

Location, location, location, location..............

We are staying at the BC in July. Can't think of any other hotel (other than a deluxe) that you can walk to and be inside a theme park in under 5 minutes.

Skipping through Epcot giggling with my way cool teen DS on the way back to our room. PRICELESS

 

[minijeanie]

I keep looking at pictures of the rooms that people have posted in the past and remembering the rooms at the resorts I've stayed at thus far (Contemporary and POFQ) and I'm just not impressed at all! What gives?! You would think for close to $350 a night for most deluxe resorts you'd get...well...a deluxe room! Most of them look outdated, run down, with poor designs/artwork/bedding. Am I just a room snob or something? Sheesh, The Four Seasons in Maui was $400/night and it blows any Disney resort away! Same for every Vegas hotel I've been to...Venetian, Bellagio... Am I just not finding the right resort photos? Can someone tell me which resort I should be looking at? For the $$$ we spend on a deluxe resort I should feel like I'm back in Maui at the Four Seasons...not at Holiday Inn.

Hope I'm not offending, but I need some advice from more experienced resort stayers at Disney!


Not offending me at all. I have always felt the deluxe rooms were nothing worth $400 or above. Putting that aside, the theming of the resorts are incredible... the grounds are immaculate and the pools are exquisite and most deluxe resorts are usually very close to walking distance to some of the parks. That alone is probably worth the price. I have found all resort staff always smiling and very helpful. I have never ever encountered a bad experience.

Many people do comment they don't spend much time in the room.. But for me even if I only spend a hour or so in the room I enjoy it much more if the room is big and has nice amenities. It is for this reason I will never stay in a value resort. Way too small for me..


but once again just my opinion.

try a deluxe...service

 

[snicklefrytz]

I agree with you. I have been wrangling with the same thoughts you have. I have never stayed at a Disney resort. We have been to the parks twice in the past few years, but stayed off-site. We also cruised on the Magic a few years ago.

This trip we decided to stay on-site because my kids have begged for the chance to do so. I have not been very impressed with the photos that I have seen. For the prices I am seeing I expected something different. In relation to other places we have stayed when travelling it is vastly different. But I need to give it a fair chance. I have nothing to base my opinions on but a few snapshots on here and what I have read. In looking over these boards the past few days I am starting to understand what others in this thread have said. It is all about the theme of the resort, the proximity to the parks, and the overall Disney experience. So I decided to go for it and reserve a room for Jan 09 at one of the Deluxe resorts. I am willing to relent to the power of the Mouse. It is bigger than me. The kids will have the time of their lives, my husband and I will go in with positive thoughts and hope for a great experience.

Good luck in your planning.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Question to the OP. Did you stay at the Contemporary before their rooms were renovated, or was it after they were renovated?

 

[shellybaxter]

BTW, I meant am I the room snob...not anyone else for sure! I just don't want anyone to take offense to their beloved resort (which I have nothing against any of the resorts...most of them are gorgeous...just not happy with the actual rooms thus far).

A room snob, I suppose, is someone who gets hung up on what their room looks like. I guess that's me! I have an infant, so with naps and such I tend to actually be IN the room. I'd like for it to look nice I suppose.

It just kills me that I've paid these prices for top places in the country (and overseas) and the rooms look similar to much less expensive hotel chains (such as the Holiday Inn comment).

Maybe I'm just not seeing the right place for me yet...

Anywho, on with the post!

Hi Hunter,

I've stayed at some really nice hotels too (Belliago Penthouse Suite, Wynn Panarama Room, Veneician, Fairmont in San Francisco, Grand Sheriton in Sac, etc.). Disney rooms don't come close to these rooms but I don't expect (or honestly want) them too. I like the way that Disney resort rooms feel like "disney" and not like all these other places. That being said, we have stayed in some rooms I consider "nicer" to be in - The Grand Floridian and the Boardwalk Inn both have rooms I felt good in.

BTW - The are building a resort hotel (Four Seasons?) in property in the near future. Maybe that will work better for you.

 

[tinknsnow]

Question to the OP. Did you stay at the Contemporary before their rooms were renovated, or was it after they were renovated?

I was going to ask that, too.

We typically stay at the Four Seasons when we do other than than Disney. The room decor at the CR comes to closest (except for maybe Swan and Dolphin) to that luxury resort feeling. However, once the drapes were closed, the room itself was the least "Disney-feeling" of any we've been to at WDW.

My standards for room decor change when I'm at Disney. I don't expect a sophisticated, chic, sleek look that you find at a boutique hotel. As others have mentioned, the service and clean rooms are important, as is the Disney vibe! We always stay club level, so the bedding and toiletries are upgraded (I think, not sure-- I know they are on the Magic) and you get turn-down service. Still not Four Seasons-like, but nice.

We tend to spend a fair amount of time in our room, too. We always take a long afternoon break to veg out before heading back out in the evening. It's important to feel comfortable in your room! Good luck.

 

[LMO429]

We go to Disney 1 to 2 times a year and stay at either the Boardwalk, Beach or YC. We recently stayed at the beach club and i was sent a survey approximately 2 weeks after I left. I noted in the survey that the price of the room does not justify what the condition of the room was in (it was run down and wore out) and what I expect when I pay almost 500 dollars a night:

I expect plasma tvs, a channel on the tv where you can purchase new movies, a phone in the bathroom, better linens, newer furniture, patio furniture that is not rusted and cracked, rugs that do not have tears/holes in to them, stainds in the rug,

that being said since we only stay on WDW property I know what to expect and what I am paying for. I am paying for the closeness to the parks. I tend to not be as picky about the room when I am in Disney because we do not spend that much time in them but when I was presented with survery I did note what could be improved upon.

It's comforting to know that the Beach Club, Yacht Club and Boardwalk will all be undergoing renovations this upcoming year and I hopeful that when we go in May 2009 the price of the room will become more justified.