Secondguessing resort pick, WWYD?

[goofieslonglostsis]

OK, this is going to be a long one, sorry! At the moment, I''m booked for 3 weeks at CBR, sept-oct next year. I'm starting to secondgues my resort pick though. Any travelling I do is overdoing it. Overdoing it to such an extend means permanent deteriation of my health. I know it, accept it. My last trip however had a much more serious effect on my health as expected. History learns that this 'lash back' wont get any better over the years, so I'm counting on at least the same one after the 2010 trip. Starting to appear this might be my last trip.

As said, I accept the body bashing I'm doing with this but of course am looking into ways to lessen it for as far possible. As such, this year will be the first I'll be flying business class across the ocean. Will still drain energy and cause more pain, but less than econ would.

Three weeks it was, thinking it is such a looooooooong time, it'll leave me with enough space and room to take it even slower and days off if need be. I am a real CBR lover. Kinda feels like a tropical home by now. Did AKL CL last year and while I had a nice time staying there, it wasn't CBR. Downside of 3 weeks CBR; 3 weeks still is a long time, still 3 weeks at a higher pace than at home. Not a lot of TS options at the resort, which knowing myself might just result in bussing out for just a TS dinner. No room service.

I've always taken breaks in between park times. For that, I tend to go back to the room as it is a lot less draining than the first aid is for me. So, quite some bussing is being done. Which got me thinking. Being closer to the action might reduce the travel time. I tend to spend most time at DHS and Epcot, with MK following pretty close for quite some visits but shorter (an hour, max). DTD is another place I go to pretty often for an hour or so. This trip I want to do park time, resort time and some offsite shopping.

I'm looking into switching my reservation to the BC, YC or BCV. Pros; ability to walk to Epcot and DHS and boattransportation. Having multiple CS and TS options right at the Boardwalk area. Roomservice so if a worse day shows up, I wouldn't have to leave the room for some warm food and save the energy for things more fun. Cons; the busses?? As far as I've picked up on the DIS they might share some busses with the BW, Swan and Dolphin? I'm not too worried about the time it adds (after all CBR also has it's villages), but am about the amount of people. As far as I know there are more rooms at these combined resorts than at CBR? How would that impact the busloads and specifically the available wheelchair spots? One thing I am known to love about CBR is it's being unliked by many, not in the last place by those with a mobility aid. (read; influence of it on transportation) Am I right to worry about this?

Also, switching the reservation to a deluxe would mean having to cut the trip down to 14 nights, which would already somewhat stretch the budget. That is with using the 20/30/40 PIN, so definately shouldn't count on a better discount becoming available later on. It would also mean having to chance my flight. Not too bad really, it's only €100,- to do so. But of course, I'ld better be sure of my decision before changing and needing to re-change.

Am I right about being a bit apprehensive about the bus transportation at Epcot area deluxe resorts? And as the title already says; what would you do? 3 Weeks at a moderate or 2 weeks at a deluxe and why?

 

[peemagg]

The only parks you might need the busses for in those resorts would be for Mk (but could walk over to Epcot and catch Monorail to get around that issue) and AK.

I think if it was me I would get a lower end room at Boardwalk and use boats and monorail or walking to as many of the theme parks as I could. It might shorten your stay a bit, but you would get some nice rooms.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Normally the buses share only during slow periods. During busier periods they will not have one bus handling all four resorts (Swan and Dolphion are considered one as their bus stop is between the two of them).

Another thing you may want to do is look into the Swan (which as a Westin hotel) or the Dolphin (which is a Sheraton), both are part of the Starwood Hotels group. They do not have package delivery, Magical Express, or use of KTTW or Dining Plan eligibility. But they do have full access to Disney transporation and Extra Magic Hours.

I know you are second guessing, but this does give some additional options (and they tend to cost less than the Disney owned and operated).

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

CF, no worry. I appreciate anybody thinking along, which includes other options I might not have come up with myself.

I actually did think about both of the resorts, but it doesn't really appeal. Sounds silly, but it doesn't feel Disney enough for me which I would like for this trip. Also not having the DME option is a real downside imho. Either I'm going solo or with some family (they go to and fro, sounds like family alright ), but either way I really like not having to worry or deal with any more arranging of transportation from the airport to WDW with the powerchair. Boy, does that sounds lazy or what.

The sharing of busses at slower periods makes sense. That's why I only remember seeing shared busses, I've only been to The World at value seasons.

Peemagg, thanks for reminding me about the monorail option! Doubt it'll really reduce time on a 'normal' base, but it is good to have a second option on hand in case I find I don't care too much for the bus options.

Thankfully I've still got quite some time to make up my mind.

 

[dclfun]

If it were me, I'd go for the deluxe resort option. Perhaps you could reduce costs even more than with the % discount offer if they have FD again, or even by renting points from a DVC member for BWV's or BCV's. Then you'd also have the microwave and toaster if you don't feel up to leaving the room but have leftovers from another meal as well as being able to order room service. I have limitations that would be similar to yours and as such, spend alot of downtime in the resort, so the resort IS important to me vs. just being a place to sleep. I truly detest the busses and the time involved going to and from, dealing with broken lifts, longer wait times, etc. even though I am grateful for accessible transportation in general and the kindness of most of the bus drivers at WDW. As such, being at a monorail resort or one of the ones you mentioned greatly increases my enjoyment of a vacation and I'm thinking you might find the same. As far as choosing the resort, will you be able to transfer into and enjoy the pools or hot tubs? If so, I'd choose BC/BCV's over BW. Otherwise, I'd go for whichever resort's themeing appeals to you most. Really the only downside other than the higher price points are lack of quick service dining but the TS options can't be beat, nor can the location. I admire you for travelling so far and am sorry to hear this might be your last trip.---Kathy

 

[maroo]

You know...

I don't know...

It sounds to me like this is your last trip...and you refer to CBR as your "tropical home"... It sounds like you really love being at CBR and that you are comfortable there.

For me...it would be all about where I wanted to actually stay...

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

If it were me, I'd go for the deluxe resort option. Perhaps you could reduce costs even more than with the % discount offer if they have FD again,

FD isn't that appealing. Even if not ending up going alone, I will have a room solo. Don't share a room for that long of a time without somebody ending up getting hurt. So with both mods end deluxes the 30/40% off is allready much better. I'm crossing my fingers for perhaps more, but not holding my breath too much since it will be FD-time while I'm going (haven't seen a better deal than 40% for years during that time).

or even by renting points from a DVC member for BWV's or BCV's. Then you'd also have the microwave and toaster if you don't feel up to leaving the room but have leftovers from another meal as well as being able to order room service.

Have also thought about that. Still a bit carefull about commiting to a rental as I'm finding my health a bit too unpredictable at the moment to commit. (but yet still book the airfare, ehm.. ) Knowing myself probably wont end up using the microwave or toaster -don't even do that at home at bad days-, but do like the lay out of the studio's none the less.

I truly detest the busses and the time involved going to and from, dealing with broken lifts, longer wait times, etc. even though I am grateful for accessible transportation in general and the kindness of most of the bus drivers at WDW.

I'm lucky in the way I've never had a bad transportation experience ever. Had to wait maybe twice or so for a second bus after park closing, but that can be expected. *knock on wood, before I start jinxing things here now*. Uptill now I didn't really consider the time it takes to travel, already calculated that in. For this trip however, it's different so I can totally understand you trying to avoid them also.

As far as choosing the resort, will you be able to transfer into and enjoy the pools or hot tubs? If so, I'd choose BC/BCV's over BW.

Are you reading my mind? Transferring isn't particularly 'wise', but neither am I. I always keep the option open and if health allows always take a couple of swims. Nothing beats swimming in those september Florida temps.

Otherwise, I'd go for whichever resort's themeing appeals to you most. Really the only downside other than the higher price points are lack of quick service dining but the TS options can't be beat, nor can the location.

Funny thing is, I like the CS option as it's enough for me. The Bakery is right up my alley so that helps a lot.

I admire you for travelling so far and am sorry to hear this might be your last trip.---Kathy

Don't. Every person has it's own quirks that turn them into nutcases for some time. Mine happens to be travelling. Totally not a smart thing to do, but for me it's like the best medicine I can live on for about a year. Perhaps loosing that or having to seriously cut down on it; don't even want to really think about it. One more reason to focus on this trip and doing things right.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

You know...

I don't know...

It sounds to me like this is your last trip...and you refer to CBR as your "tropical home"... It sounds like you really love being at CBR and that you are comfortable there.

For me...it would be all about where I wanted to actually stay...

Grin, where Kathy totally summed up why I'm poundering about YC/BC, you are totally summing it up why I do the same thing about CBR.

My heart is at CBR, my brain at BC/YC. Time will tell, I'm sure. And if not, making no decision also is a decision I guess.

 

[peemagg]

I think if this was possibly my last trip I would go whole hog on the things I wanted to do and places to stay. So stay where your heart says you should. Your instincts are usually best.

 

[maroo]

Grin, where Kathy totally summed up why I'm poundering about YC/BC, you are totally summing it up why I do the same thing about CBR.

My heart is at CBR, my brain at BC/YC. Time will tell, I'm sure. And if not, making no decision also is a decision I guess.

Since you are "split"...maybe you should do a split stay?

A few days at the YC/BC and the rest of the time at CBR (or even better, the other way around)...
I am sure it would be a pain to change...and that may be a major drawback...but you would have essentially two trips for the price of one...

then maybe you could go 2.5 weeks...not too long...not too short.

You could schedule your Epcot "days" strongly around the YC/BC stay and do a lot of relaxing at both - but most of your down days at CBR - where you love.

The good thing is....The choice is between two good choices...you can't go wrong on this one! You will be in Disney!

Have a great trip! And keep us posted.

 

[dclfun]

Keep us posted- and I know you'll make the right decision. It's tempting to have the longer stay, esp. since you'll have travelled so far. Perhaps you can still rent DVC points as they can be cancelled up to 30 days prior w/o penalty- you just need to find an owner who understands your circumstances and is willing to work with you. I also forgot about the lovely QS location inside the gift shop at BC/BCV's. My son loved their made-to-order salads, sandwiches, and gelato, plus they had some tasty bakery items too.---Kathy

 

[SueM in MN]

Since you are "split"...maybe you should do a split stay?

A few days at the YC/BC and the rest of the time at CBR (or even better, the other way around)...
I am sure it would be a pain to change...and that may be a major drawback...but you would have essentially two trips for the price of one...

then maybe you could go 2.5 weeks...not too long...not too short.

You could schedule your Epcot "days" strongly around the YC/BC stay and do a lot of relaxing at both - but most of your down days at CBR - where you love.

The good thing is....The choice is between two good choices...you can't go wrong on this one! You will be in Disney!

Have a great trip! And keep us posted.

We've done a split stay and it can be a pain to transfer, but if the stay in each resort is long enough, that would make it easier.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

The split stay has also crossed my mind. Might just decide to do that, allthough I would than look into transferring my medical stuff myself.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Well, the decision has been made. Last week I asked my mom to think along with me. She's been to WDW so knows what she's talking about, understands my WDW-love and of course my health. Dad just called, asking about the price difference. Long story short, they've made a decision. I will be going for 3 weeks, split stay CBR and YC/BC. The price difference from 3 weeks CBR is a gift from my parents and grandfather that died about a year ago. (Also loved to travel, and sweethart app. gave parents some money and told them to use it towards me when any of my travels would need some $-input)

Still can't really believe it yet, but wow have things worked out here! So basically, any tips and tricks about what to do and not do with a split stay are welcome.

 

[peemagg]

That is great!!! I know you are going to have a great time no matter where you stay.

 

[dclfun]

Woo hoo! As a parent myself, I know I'd do whatever I could to help my kids, so I know your parents are feeling joyful right now about being able to help you on this trip. Now you don't have to stress about your resort choice and can start the fun of planning! I hope perhaps to meet you this time around as I should finally have my new van. Maybe we can hit the malls and outlet malls together!--Kathy

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Yeah, my parents are beyond great. Mom may end up joining me, time will tell if she can get the time off and all. Now only to decide whether I like the theming of the YC or the BC more. Or perhaps availability will make that decision for me, who knows?

Kathy, fingers crossed you'll get the new van soon! I now how anxious I can be waiting for some new set of transportation to come along, so can imagine you counting off the days.

*Smile*, yeah somehow we keep just missing eachother and going another direction. Guess, that's talent to, right?

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

It's official, I think. I'm a resort-changer/doubter-addict.

Since my last post, it's become clear that mom will come along. As such, we decided to stay at CBR for the 3 weeks. Both need our own space, so sharing a room for 3 weeks would end up in WW3. Two rooms at BC or YC for the last week would become a bit crazy money wise. So, 2 rooms for 3 weeks at CBR it is.

Or so we decided? I booked them both with 30% off, thanks to a PIn-code I've got. Not bad at all. But than came WDTC UK. They've got one of their regular offers going on. A serious discount (around 42% I think?) on studios and villas at OKW and SSR and free dining (regular plan) thrown in all together.

I looked at a 2-bedroom and it comes in at about $920,- more than 2 rooms at CBR. So basically, both of us would eat for $450,- for the 3 weeks. Not bad. And now the doubt has started again. Switch to SSR or stay at CBR?

SSR has the added benefits of being able to walk to DTD, an extra living room, the washer/dryer combo (very welcome with 21 nights), would end up cheaper considering the $150,- per person per week eating isn't very doable when OOP for food. Looks like the traveltime to and from parks is about the same as with CBR.

On the other hand; SSR is new. With CBR we both know what we'll be getting and feeling home. SSR looks nice from the pics, but will it feel homy? SSR being very spread out does worry somewhat. On the other hand; is it really more spread out than CBR? Also the living area of the 2-bedroom villa looks a bit crowded to move around in with a wheelchair and might need some moving around of furniture?

For those that have done both CBR and SSR with a wheelchair, how did you find them to compare? Of course without the 'feeling home or not' part, that is too individual I guess.


I know, I'm bad.

 

[peemagg]

I have not stayed at CBR, but I have stayed at SSR before and it is really a nice laid back resort. I find it to be a very relaxing resort.

I would try to get a room in the Grandstand section. This way you will be the first bus stop and you will still be close to the Carriage House (the main house). You also have boat service to DTD and it is wheelchair acceptable. There is also a nice trail that is paved that goes to DTD. We really like the resort. I know some complain about it, but we don't mind it one bit.

 

[dclfun]

I would choose SSR in a heartbeat! Do take a look at the map and make a request for location and even if you'd prefer ground floor, as the accessible rooms are on all floors as it is spread out, but not any more than CBR. The only drawback I could think of would be the food court. It is a smaller area ( off the gift shop) without quite as much variety but you'll be close to DTD to grab a bite there too, and with having FD, that makes it even better! I still prefer OKW as the larger villas are HUGE and have full size washer/dryer and kitchen and the views are lovely but SSR is very nice. I think it would be nice to have a living room to hang out in when you want, and then separate bedrooms when you need privacy.---Kathy