Swan or Dolphin-any difference in resorts?

[nezy]

I was interested in checking some rates for either the Swan or the Dolphin. In doing so I realized that they are actually owned by 2 different companies-one had a booking ress system for Westin, the other for Starwood/Sheraton.

Is Westin part of Starwood?

That said, is one of these more preferred than the other? I know the amenities (pool and property ) are shared. Prices for the Dolphin seem to be lower in general.

Also, is it worth $100 differnce in price to get a "Fireworks view" room at the dolphin?

Are there any areas to view the fireworks other than from a room w/ a view?

 

[LindaR]

We stayed at the Swan in March 2007. It is actually the smaller of the two. We did go to the Dolphin for most meals that were eaten onsite (Tubbi's is great).

If you are a Starwood member (and if not, sign up NOW - its free) you will get an upgrade to your room.

I would go with whichever hotel had the best rate for the timeframe that you are looking at. Can't go wrong!!!

 

[LindaR]

Oh, and I meant to answer this:

Starwood Hotels are: Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton, St. Regis, Luxury Collection, W Hotels, and Westin.

So joining the Starwood program will help you with stays at any of the properties above. I forget which one is which (Dolphin/Westin and Swan/Sheraton???) but it doesn't matter.

 

[Mickiethepooh]

I prefer the Swan it is a bit more sedate but they are both great hotels.

 

[Turtlegirl]

Definitely join Starwood Preferred Guest. Gives you late check-out, etc. Two big differences, IMHO, Swan has 2 queen beds where as Dolphin has 2 double beds. Some Dolphin rooms have balconies whereas Swan rooms don't. A toss-up as I much prefer queen vs. double but I love a balcony in my room.

 

[klofan]

The Swan is a Westin hotel. It is also smoke-free. It offers two queen beds and the rooms have 2 sinks. Rooms are slightly smaller. The resort is a lot smaller than the Dolphin and it is easier to get around.

The Dolphin is Sheraton. It is NOT smoke free. It offers two double beds and only one sink. The lobby here is more impressive. It houses the cafeteria and most of the hotels popular places.

 

[nezy]

I can get a smoke -free room though can't I?

When I made the ressie I joined the Starwood Preferrred-Thanks for the advice!
So how do I get the upgrade-just ask at check-in? or is it automatic?

 

[LindaR]

Upgrade is automatic as long as its available.

Example: I travel to another city about every six weeks. I usually stay at the Sheraton. I book a standard room and am always upgraded to the club level at no additional cost. Now, I wouldn't get that much of an upgrade normally but I have been doing this for quite some time.

When we stayed at the Swan, I booked a standard room. We were upgraded to a MGM view.

 

[cara loves the poly]

We stayed at the Swan in March 2007. It is actually the smaller of the two. We did go to the Dolphin for most meals that were eaten onsite (Tubbi's is great).

If you are a Starwood member (and if not, sign up NOW - its free) you will get an upgrade to your room.

I would go with whichever hotel had the best rate for the timeframe that you are looking at. Can't go wrong!!!

Great advice! I learned something new! I have often tossed around the idea of trying the Swan/Dolphin. Maybe one day, lol, we're just too in love with the Poly!

 

[SingingMom]

Dolphin is much more "alive" than the Swan, in my humble opinion .. depends on if you want quiet and sedate, or enjoy "people watching"...
The restaurants at the Dolphin are more convenient - Picabu's is open 24 hours... We're returning for our third visit this June..

 

[klofan]

I can get a smoke -free room though can't I?

When I made the ressie I joined the Starwood Preferrred-Thanks for the advice!
So how do I get the upgrade-just ask at check-in? or is it automatic?

Yes you can get a smoke-free room, but on request only.

They usually just tell you when you get an upgrade, but asking wouldn't hurt either, lol.

 

[luvmarypoppins]

To add to the other posters, we have stayed at both.
The Dolphin sleeps 5 with a rollaway or aerobed, the swan allows 4.
The Swan is less of a walk back to your room after a long day in the parks
The Swan is the 1st bus stop, the Dolphin 2nd. We always pick the Swan. I prefer not to stand on the bus if possible.
The Dolphin lobby is amazing, especially at christmas time. We have sat there and enjoyed the decorations and piano player etc.