Swan/Dolphin experts - some questions . . .

[amjl]

Hi everyone,

We are planning a family reunion at WDW. There are several people in the family who would qualify for the Government/Nurses/Teachers rate at the Swan and Dolphin. We all want to stay together and as I undestand it - each person who gets the rate can reserve 3 rooms - is that correct? To get that rate do we all have to check in and check out on the same days? Does the person who qualifies for the rate have to pay the bill?Is there somewhere to check what type of government jobs qualify for the rate? Last rate question - why are the Dolphin rates less than the Swan rates?

I was at the Swan and Dolphin 9 years ago at a convention so my memories of it are limited. The grotto pool did not exist at the time and I can't picture where it is - where is it located and is the Swan or Dolphin closer to it?

There are lots of little ones coming on the trip - can you still get a crib and side rails for free?

Most of the family wants to stay at the Poly but with this discounted rate we just can't ignore it. What else can I tell people to get them excited about staying at the Swan/Dolphin?

many thanks for all your help!

 

[FINFAN]

I can help with the Grotto location, it is closer to the Dolphin, but depending on where your room is in the building it can take longer to get to it from there than the swan depending on your room location there! With little ones I think I would say the Dolphin for Tubbies buffeteria, and the sandy beach area near the Grotto...but the Queen beds are at the Swan...personal preference. Sorry not of more help....did you read the HUGE S/D facts thread? That will have a ton of info on it.

 

[amjl]

Thanks for the info on the pool . . . I've been reading through the threads I find on the Swan and Dolphin and its been great. I'm guessing that the Swan is more money because of the queen size beds vs the double beds - I think with a family of 5 the Swan is probably better.

thanks again!

 

[swilphil]

Both hotels are owned by Starwood, but the Dolphin is considered a Sheraton and the Swan, a Westin. Westins tend to be 4/5 star hotels and more expensive. The Dolphin has been renovating its rooms for the past year and putting in the Westin's signature Heavenly Beds. There's been rumors that the Dolphin will become a Westin as well.

The best part about the Dolphin is its location. You are so close to Epcot/Boardwalk/MGM. The govt. rate is really a steal when compared to the Disney Deluxe resorts in the area.

 

[amjl]

Thanks Sherri!

Thats what I'm telling folks - you can't beat the location!