Split Stay??? Staying @ Swan, but convention starts

[maui2k5]

I am going to WDW Sept 22-Oct 1 and I have the AllEars Rate of $169 for the first 6 nights then the normal rate for the last 3. I just found out that the last three nights that are at the higher rate are in fact nights when a convention is there. Should I consider moving to another Disney resort for the last 3 nights since the rate with conventioneers is $244 plus tax and fees? If so which one? One reason I chose the Swan was for the proximity to Epcot and MGM and the heavenly beds are very nice after a long day in the park. However, I have heard to try and avoid the Swan/Dolphin when conventions are there... Since it would only be for a portion of my trip, is packing up and moving worth the hassle to avoid the convention attendees? What would you all recommend?

 

[DisneyaholicRaquel]

If you book directly with starwood hotels they have a special book 4 nights get 2 free. The link is: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/promo...egory=PRGENRES&IM=SPG_SO_DRESPGSO_NAD_RESORTS

 

[DAWGPOUNDAJ]

I would consider changing hotels for the last 3 nights if only to experience something new. Im one of those people who love to try new resorts, new activities, etc. The worst that can happen is you decide you don't like the resort you try out and you will know to not book it for future WDW stays. 3 nights is long enough to enjoy a seperate stay at a different resort, and the AP rates are out now so if you have an AP rate why not try one of the moderates or deluxes out? Have a great trip!

 

[Poohlovr]

Unless you just have an urge to change resorts or think the rate for the last three nights is too expensive, I wouldn't bother.

I've been at the S/D several times with conventions in progress and was never bothered by it.

At the Swan, the convention site is off to the side of the main hotel, so you probably wouldn't even notice them, except to pass in the halls or the lobbby.

At the Dolphin, it's a tad different as some of the convention areas are off of the main lobby and they will frequently gather in the main lobby.

Either way, it's not like they're going to bother you. They don't use the park transportation during the day, so that is not impacted. They don't use the pool during the day, so don't take up any chaise lounges.

I frankly don't see what the problem is.

If it were me, I'd just stay put.

 

[twocat]

I agree with Poolvr--you won't notice the conventioneers. NOW, if the question is staying at a different resort to soak up some different ambience, go for it! You might want to try a Disney-owned property to see the difference. Try a MK resort like the Poly or GF. Personally my goal is to stay on as many properties as possible to get a different perspective on ALL of them.

edited to add- Okay I take it all back...I see that the second half of your stay will be during the F & W festival at Epcot. Stay put or move to BC/YC or the BWI if you want to go to this fabulaous event!

 

[maui2k5]

Thanks for the tips everyone. I called Starwood and discussed several scenarios and thanks to this message board I saved an additional $200 by doing stay 2 get 1 free for the last 3 nights! I will likely have enough Starwood points by the time I go to get at least 1 or possibly two more nights free. Once I am in Disney I do not worry about money, but when planning for it, I always like to get the best deal prior to going there. Being that the F&W festival is during the end of our trip staying put is probably the best idea. Add to that that I have a rate of $169 a night throughout if you average it out over 9 nights and I am pretty happy about that.

One last question would be should I use my points for an upgrade from the Lake View to a resort view or just try and get a free room? Is there a good chance of getting an upgrade when I go there? Any recommendations on the best way to get an upgrade for free?

Thanks again for the tips!

 

[bballmom56]

We were at the Swan when a convention was there, and it really wasn't a problem. My only concern about the 4/2 deal is that the entire amount is charged when you book, and if you have to cancel, you forfeit the entire room charge plus tax.

 

[maui2k5]

We were at the Swan when a convention was there, and it really wasn't a problem. My only concern about the 4/2 deal is that the entire amount is charged when you book, and if you have to cancel, you forfeit the entire room charge plus tax.

I was a little concerned about booking a trip that I had to pay up front for and was hesitant about booking the 3 nights for the price of 2 also. However, since I have already booked the flight at a very good rate, I figured I should do it. Worst case scenario is I lose the price of the flight and 2 nights which would be bad, but not as bad as paying for 4 upfront if something happened (first 6 have a deposit only for 1 night and is refundable). I had thought about moving to a different hotel for the remaining 3 nights, but I do not think my gf would like moving from the heavenly bed to either the yacht or beach clubs for more $$$ (want to be near the W&F festival)...

 

[boscoj]

Maui2K5,

We stayed at the Swan 2 years ago and loved it! Yes, there was a convention but like everyone else said, it didn't really bother us at all. As for the upgrade, are you a Gold member or Preferred? In either case, they will try to upgrade you for free (if you ask nicely) at check-in if there is availability. The only way to guarantee an upgrade, however, is to use your points beforehand. In our case, we had a King suite and I was able to upgrade to have club level privileges just by inquiring...