Swan or Dolphin..discount rates?

[lulugirl]

I am looking for some feedback about the Swan and Dolphin are they generally the same or is one "nicer" than the other?(it looks like the Dolphin rates are a little lower?) We would like to stay there this year, early December. I am wondering if Dh qualifies for the teachers discount, he is an administrator (director of child nurtition for a school district). Does anybody know what the requirments are to get this discount?
Also when do you think is the best time to make reservations, are discounted rooms available this far in advance? Is it best to book directly through the hotel?
Any feedback is appreciated!
-Elisabeth

 

[Connears]

I stayed at the Swan for the first time 12/28-1/02/04. It was a fabulous resort (its a Westin), great room 1153 on CL. CM were wonderful and you can't beat the location. All rooms at Swan have been recently renovated and the heavenly beds are just that. We enjoyed some of the restaurants at the Dolphin and the lobby is much grander than the Swan. Dolphin is the larger one and we enjoyed the intimacy of the smaller Swan. I am a college professor and got the teacher's rate and they did ask for my ID on check-in. I am also a SPG member , but I didn't want to risk not getting the upgrade to CL so I paid teachers rate for CL $214 (instead of $149). Breakfast and evening fare was very good and plentiful. CL lounge is comfortable and was never overly crowded. Turn down service is also included. We would stay there again in a heartbeat! Can't comment on rooms at Dolphin, but they too have been recently redone and don't know if all are completed.
Connears