Swan/Dolphin for $129+10 per night; Is it good???

[goredwings]

I just called to get some rates off the Governement Employee program, they told me it was $129 + $10 per night = $139. I currently have a room at the All Star Sports Resort for $109. From those that have been there, what more would be some advantages on upgrading (kind of on a tight budget on this trip) Thanks Everyone!!!

 

[MTMom]

Yes, this is a good rate for the Swan/Dolphin. The only lower rate I've seen is the $69 rate that a few folks have gotten on Priceline, but that's risky, because you're not guaranteed to get the Swan or Dolphin, and you might get stuck in a hotel that doesn't offer Early Entry. I would definitely stay at the Swan instead of the All-Star. Much nicer, more amenities, easier to get to the parks, restaurants, etc. If you really want to save money, call WDW reservations and ask to apply code AXA or AXB to your existing reservations for special discounts on various resorts for check-ins 4/27/03-7/3/03. Some of the rates that have been reported so far: All-Star $84/nt.

 

[Bimmy56]

It's not just good - it's excellent! For just $30 a night you are upgrading from a value hotel to a deluxe. The location and convenience of the Swan/Dolphin are hard to beat. The pool, playground area is GREAT, you just hop on a boat to Epcot and Studios, the Swan was just remodeled with "Heavenly Beds". I recommend reading Glo's Swan/Dolphin thread at the top of opening resort discussion page. She will tell you anything that you ever wanted to know!!

 

[MOMTOMOOTOO]

That is a TERRIFIC rate. If you can swing it I would say go for it. Like the other poster said, you are going from a value to a deluxe for not much more. GREAT RATE

 

[kda]

It's an excellent rate and we enjoy staying at Swan/Dolphin. You said that you were on a tight budget, and that's the only reason I hesitate to strongly encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity.

Benefits: larger room, with queen beds at the Swan (heavenly beds, I'm told) and oversized doubles at the Dolphin; right in the heart of Epcot, where you can easily walk to a variety of other resorts to eat in a variety of restaurants; 10-15 minute walk to MGM or Epcot, if you choose; boats to both those parks; deluxe resort; choice of several pools, including a very nice grotto pool that is so relaxing.

Possible drawbacks: Restaurants and food in a deluxe resort are more pricey. No food court, so if you're planning to eat many meals there, that could be a problem for you. You can still bring breakfast stuff to eat in the room, and if you plan to eat primarily at the parks, I wouldn't worry about the absence of a food court.

 

[Mark P.]

We stayed at the Dolphin last year, and are doing so again this May.
You can't beat the Swan/Dolphin for the price! The final Govt. Rate comes out to be $153.84/night. That's $129 + 11.5% tax.
Then add the $10/night Resort Fee, and that brings it to $153.84.

Still a darn good price for a Deluxe Resort at an awesome location, which is in between Epcot and MGM. Then there's the Boardwalk right there, too.

While the Dolphin may not have a typical Food Court, Tubbis Buffeteria is just as good, IMO. Quick and easy, and not too pricey

 

[Kitty 34]

Go to the Dolphin for sure!!! It's a great spot with a wonderful staff and wonderful pool!! We have stayed there twice and had a great time. The boats to Epcot and MGM are very efficient. The location of the SwanDolphin can't be beat!!

 

[NHAnn]

We .love S/D....a deluxe resort for the price of a moderate at the government rate! Look at it this way.....you'd have to bus everywhere from AllStars. At S/D you take the boat or walk to Epcot and MGM. You save transport time..thereby giving you more time IN the parks...thereby getting more out of your time and money overall The pool is great and the Boardwalk for more dining and entertainment!
I would encourage a cooler and a grocery stop outside WDW for water, juice , non-perishable breakfast food, and snacks to keep in the room (no matter where you stay)!

 

[goredwings]

Thank all of you for your input. I now will most likely go with it, just for a change. Thanks for all your help!!!!

 

[Disneycrazymom]

Once you stay at the Swan you will be forever spoiled from going back to a value! You will really enjoy the transportation, and having the boardwalk right there, especially in the evening time. The pool is great too. Enjoy your stay.