Stayed at the GF and was very dissapointed maybe should have stayed at the poly

[AndyMcV]

...Guests in theme park attire who don't spend money to enjoy the grounds, don't notice the theme, and only eat counter-service food cannot compare to guests who have the leisure time and money to enjoy what they pay for....

Hi sotoalf

Well said post above! However I do disagree with your statement I quoted. I personally am very much into detail especially at a resort. I love the architecture and landscaping of Disney, the lengths they go to to provide a resort theme is increadible. For example the Disney Boardwalk makes you feel like you're transported back to the 1930's. I spend half my time looking at the little details. The very same holds true for the resorts. Just because I spend most of the day at a park doesn't mean I can't enjoy, appreciate all the ammenities, grounds and theming that the resorts provide. Disney definitely feels this way too, otherwise we'd have a bunch of Motel 6's lined up outside the MK. Not a flame at all, just my thoughts.

A.

 

[CarolA]

Reading these posts amazes me...
It's OK for them to knock on your door at 8 am on the day you were leaving??? Why??? Did they try to make your room up that early any other day, probably not so the whole reason is to rush you out!

I feel like folks give Disney WAY to much leeway for the GF. If the service is NOT comparable to a top drawer resort then the monorail does NOT make up for it! I compare that hotel to other top hotels and it has never measured up IMHO. I gave it NO break for "location"

 

[goofy!]

I am going to have to agree with Arazamatazz here.

After frequenting many of the deluxe Disney resorts and the Universal resorts, Disney had better watch out. We too are staying at the Portofino and right now I am contemplating just staying there during our WDW portion of our trip and just driving over.

 

[sotoalf]

I am going to have to agree with Arazamatazz here.
Because I am a Platinum Loews member (only took 3 stays at USF to gain that perk), Loews now automatically upgrades me at reservation to a suite from a garden view room. I have never received any kind of frequent stay perks from Disney. And by now I should be at the top of their perk list . Also, because I am staying at Universal's on-site hotel, I get an unlimited Fast Pass (FOTL in Universal Language) to all the rides, usuable at anytime I want - no waiting for return times - even on the day I check out. Disney just isn't doing anything to encourage return customers like that.

Well said! Disney better watch out.

 

[AndyMcV]

I have a 2 bedroom suite in July for $241.74 per night. Deluxe 5 piece bath, heavenly beds, and 3 huge rooms (bedroom with king, bedroom with 2 queens and large parlor). 4 pools, one a beach pool with a fantastic slide for the kids. Several hot tubs, a great spa and fitness area, etc, etc. Because I am a Platinum Loews member... Loews now automatically upgrades me at reservation to a suite from a garden view room.

Hi Goofy!

I agree that Disney resorts are expense no question. However are we comparing apples to apples here?? You said that you get that 2 bedroom suite for $241 per night at the Portofino Bay at Universal however that's because you are a platinum Loews member (which I assume not anyone can walk off the street and get). What is the regular/rack rate of that 2 bedroom suite at Portofino? That's what I'd compare to the Disney prices.

A.

 

[Suzanne74]

I agree that the portofino is a MUCH better hotel too - WOW - way better but until guest stays start going down at any of the WDW deluxe resorts, the prices will not. In the past few years AP rates are higher and there are no more general codes so who knows. Overall I have noticed that the CM's, esp at the hotels are not nearly as magical as they used to be. I know it is a hard job and you are dealing with a lot of negatives, esp since rooms/hotels are getting older but I honestly believe it is the CM's who make or break a stay, even with a hole in the wall.

I have thought many times about staying outside the park to save money, esp when I see the Marriott and the Ritz. For us, the monorail or bus service just doesn't do it - I know we are in the minority but taking a bus from Poly to AK took over an hour each time which is just way too long in my opinion and wastes so much time. I am also not a fan of cramming in the monorail, collapsing the stroller and taking my daughter in and out etc... Maybe it is me again, but a few weeks ago I thought there were fewer monorails running, at least on the resort side. Each one, no matter what time of day it was, was jam packed. Poor Contemporary people could never fit in to get to TTC or any other resort. I like the boat service but to me it is not a reason to pay a few hundred dollars more a night. Driving is quicker to every park except MK and we never go without a rental car now. Magical Express won't change our minds either as they are taking up to 2 hrs to get you to your resort and that is not even your luggage. To me, if I am already paying $$$ for my vacation another hundred for a week rental car is worth it in the time you save.

Okay I just went rambling - I do love Disney like other posters have stated too but it is just feeling less magical to me. Less about the consumer and more about corporate and themselves. I hope the WL will change my tune as we will be heading there in Dec.

 

[devotedchristian]

I feel like folks give Disney WAY to much leeway for the GF. If the service is NOT comparable to a top drawer resort then the monorail does NOT make up for it! I compare that hotel to other top hotels and it has never measured up IMHO. I gave it NO break for "location"

 

[Jen D]

Despite its luxury and the Disney hype, the GF will never compare to the Ritz because the clientele is different. Guests in theme park attire who don't spend money to enjoy the grounds, don't notice the theme, and only eat counter-service food cannot compare to guests who have the leisure time and money to enjoy what they pay for. Please don't misunderstand: this is not a class issue. I'm merely pointing out the difference between the different kinds of clientele a luxury hotel serves.

I think GF will never compare to the Ritz as long as Disney refuses to raise its standards... but I think it is wrong to assume guests of the GF don't expect five star luxury. Otherwise why pay the inflated prices to stay at the luxury flagship resort? Why not stay at a less opulent deluxe or a moderate?

I agree there are some subtle differences in the way a top hotel caters to its customers-- whether they be primarily business travelers, vacationers, etc. but there are certain standards one expects at a top hotel and Disney doesn't seem to be interested in having it's flagship hotel meet those standards.

It's a shame-- it's a beautiful hotel--- the elegance of the buildings and the grounds,and the restaurants, leads one to expect a truly five star experience; but the whole package does not seem to be there yet.

 

[Violetx3]

I think if you were disappointed in the GF, than you will feel the same about the Poly. We just got back from the Poly and while we had a wonderful time, the rooms were really mediocre. I looked at 2 rooms and the both needed rehab. Our carpet was stained and old-looking. Cleanliness wasn't great. There was a gross, sticky substance that looked like maple syrup on the doorframe. The rooms looked tired. I didn't let it bother me too much because the grounds are beautiful and the location can't be beat, but I was glad that my expectations weren't too high. Right after the trip, my husband stayed at an airport Marriott and he said it was so much nicer--it was almost funny. I have never been in another Disney resort, but I have to wonder if a "deluxe" resort is so average, than what are the "moderates" and "values" like?

 

[mcgrawfan]

We stayed in Boca Chica last year and loved it. We actually were upgraded from a garden view queen size to a lagoon and MK view king size. It was very clean and we were not disappointed at all.

 

[Miss Inga Depointe]

I have to wonder if a "deluxe" resort is so average, than what are the "moderates" and "values" like?

smaller rooms farther from the parks. basically.

 

[goofy!]

oops - double post

 

[Cinderella37]

The problem is that WDW can fill its hotels without an incentive program. Universal has traditionally been a two-day destination that many people would just drive to from their WDW resort. My fiance and I were just discussing last night about how expensive it's getting to spend 11 days at WDW for what you get. I was pricing an 11 day trip to the Ritz in Cancun and it's about the same price for a Club Level suite (865 sq. feet) than what we're paying for a deluxe concierge room at the BWI. I'd say that Cancun on the beach with a full water view is a great location as well.

It is our (my fiance and I) fault that we pay the rates and many of us have been spoiled by AP rates. In December of 2003 we paid 40% less for the same we're staying in in July. This year our AAA discount was more than the AP (which wasn't available for our room and/or dates). The point is, WDW is filling rooms. I figure that if we decide to go to Cancun rather than WDW, they'll still fill our room and won't think a thing of loyal guests going elsewhere.

 

[Violetx3]

It is true. They really are filling rooms! The WDW resorts are really booked up this May. It seems like a lot of people are staying on site, because the parks weren't that busy but hotels were full. Not many discounts. Where is their incentive to make improvements?

 

[LindsayDunn228]

I wouold never spend that much money just to sleep. I'll stick with the moderates.

My sentiments exactly!

 

[DisOrBust]

We also had a poor stay at the GF in 2002. I won't ever be back. Now in hindsight I can honeslty say it was the worsest WDW stay we have had. I think the GF is overrated I personally think Disney believe that they can get away with subpar service at their "flagship" resort.

PFB was a better hotel for theming, service and value. We have often tossed around going back.....Disney could learn a thing or two from PFB....

 

[dreamflight99]

I don't think we are comparing apples to oranges here. What I was trying to say is that you have two resorts that are 5* in quality, however Loews and/or Universal is doing much more to cater to their customers.

Hi Goofy~Your statement is all a matter of opinion. I frequent the PBH annually, yet would never go as far as to attest LOEWS is doing "much more" than DISNEY to cater to their guests! No offense, but I've read of numerous complaints at the Loews properties as well. We have been staying at the PBH since it's opening. It is the "flagship" property of the three Loews US hotels, and definitely a wonderful location.

I too, am a platinum Loews member. Yet, I do not feel as though LOEWS does as much for me (w/regards to member perks, etc) as ie: SPG (starwood preferred guest). I also, receive an upgrade, when applicable. Yet, since we always stay in the same Bay view 3~room VILLA w/CL (as opposed to a regular garden room with the free upgrade to the Portofino suite) we usually do not qualify for any perk. We stayed in the Portofino suite for one eve, a year ago when we arrived a day early (as our villa was occupied).

The Portofino suite is okay, but VERY small--and in my estimation should not even be called a "suite" (the title is misleading), as it's more of an efficiency. The bedroom attached to these suites is a standard size bedroom class (as opposed the luxurious oversized "deluxe" bedroom attached to the villa, and available separately--with the deep open bath/ separate shower, etc), and the PARLOR "suite" attached is a VERY SMALL rectangualr shaped room (with just enough space for a small table/2-chairs, sleeper sofa & coffee table, TV in amoire, mini-coffee buffet and bathroom w/corner shower). It's more of a business room-setting/offering, (than a suite). The Villa, on the other hand, is a true SUITE and may be aptly called such. It has a lovely parlor inside the double-door entrance, separate open office w/fax & desk, large open well-appointed living area, separate butler pantry/kitchen and large formal dining table, full bath, attached to the deluxe bedrooms. These suites have lovely views, with astounding balconies. None of the Portofino suites have balconies. I'm aware others have received these "upgrades" w/o plat. loews, and it's no surprise.

Currently, for $300 you could reserve CL, in a deluxe room and request the upgrade (for your LOEWS--if desired) when you arrive. The CL at the Portofino is wonderfully extensive, and open nearly EVERY HOUR of the day with unique and delectible offerings. We enjoy our visits to the PBH (we have AP's to the parks, and LOVE the FOTLA), and will be there again in about a month. Yet, I still enjoy WDW and the resorts offered through this corporation. We too, split our time in the world. Yet, we stay a week at the PBH, and more than 7~weeks on DELUXE DISNEY PROP. While the PBH is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a few days away from the mouse, there is NO MAGIC happening there...and certainly no monorail traveling through the interior, or fireworks bursting over a visible castle fantasy scene. To each...his/her own. Just my own .02 cents.

 

[rcraw45425]

mcgrawfan, I think we had that same Boca CHica setup. 4023 was our room number. It worked out great with two kids, seemed to make the room larger.

 

[Ladyhawke10]

Wow, lots of people have had bad rooms at the GF, it seems. I have only stayed in the main building and SL and they were very nice, clean, and well maintained. I had the experience of staying at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Hawaii over spring break this year and the first room they gave me was a DUMP. It was BIG BUCKS so I called the front desk and wonder of wonders was given a fabulous room - couldn't have been any more different from the first. The Royal Hawaiian is supposed to be a great hotel so I was shocked at the state of the first room we were shown. Some people must just settle for it. There was no way I would for the price we were paying. You have to let them know you aren't happy while you are there so that something can be done to improve your stay. If they can't move you to a better room, they should at least compensate you by cutting the room rate etc. That isn't the same as a great room, but at least you won't feel like you're getting burned.

Lives4Disney

I've had lovely rooms, too--we've been in Big Pine Key, Boca Chica and Sago Cay. Nothing has ever been run down. The only Disney resort where it looked in need of a rehab was the PO Riverside, and this was right before a rehab occured (I've heard it's gorgeous now). That's disappointing to hear about a room in poor repair at GF. It's my fantasy hotel (due to the theme) so it would certainly be disappointing to check into it again and have the room in a state of disrepair or dirty. Luckily, that hasn't happened to us yet, but it's too bad it's happened to others

Did you stay in the historic building in the Royal Hawaiian? I agree that some rooms are in much better shape than others on that property. The different wings were built like decades apart and deteriorate in different stages. Glad they had a better one for you the second time!

 

[Lives4Disney]

Ladyhawke10 - we were actually in the Royal Tower in an "Island Suite". It was totally shabby - not at all what was described to me when I made the reservation. I just cannot describe it other than garage sale junk for furnishings and old (not antique - just OLD), broken down, and dirty. We had been awake for 23 hours by the time we got to this room and I was at the end of my rope. My kids wanted to sleep there, but I said NO way and called the front desk. They moved us to the Ikanani suite on the top floor. I have learned that a phone call can usually accomplish an improvement. You have to speak up. Don't put up with substandard. You know what you are paying and what you should be getting for that money - at least a well maintained, clean room!!

I am sorry people have had bad luck at the GF. I don't mean to unvalidate what posters have stated, but I have just been really happy there (lucky for me!) I guess I do excuse the Disney resorts a bit because I just LOVE WDW. I stay on property for that reason and feel like part of the cost of the room is for the view and proximity to the parks. Everyone has different limit to what they think is a fair price for what they are getting and what they will put up with. I stayed at the CR 14th floor in a suite and felt totally disgusted with the accomodations for what I paid. They were a wreck. I won't stay there again. Total disappointment for me.

Well, live and learn, right?

Lives4Disney