The ALL NEW Disney's Contemporary Resort & Bay Lake Tower FAQ with PICs! (FEB 2010)

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Quick question. We are staying at Bay Lake Tower, and I want to get water delivered from Costco. What address do I use? Thanks!

I would use the Contemporary address because all packages mailed to them go to their convention center.

 

[Holly324]

Thanks!

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

You're welcome.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

This is part of an article posted on the Orlando Sentinal which mentions how the WDW Resorts are getting renovated and the Tower Club 14th floor is part of it, so here is what the article says about it.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/busi...y-princess-hotel-rooms-20110425,0,89771.story

Rucker said Disney is also developing new plans for the suites in its deluxe hotels — beginning with 23 in Disney's Contemporary Resort that will be refurbished to attract health-conscious travelers. Disney says it will convert the entire 14th floor of that hotel to a health-and-wellness theme, complete with a private yoga studio, custom-designed menus, and concierge services.

The rooms themselves will be outfitted with amenities such as bamboo floors, low-allergen pillows and mattresses, exercise equipment and massage tables. Disney says it expects the suites to open by November.

Some experts think those rooms may prove a tricky sell, even for Disney.

"For them to carve out any inventory and specialize in those kind of rooms, I'm not sure they're going to see a lot of returns," said Scott Smith, a lodging instructor in the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management. "It seems to me that it's such a small, niche market, whereas families going to Disney who like princesses or pirates are huge."

Disney says it views the Contemporary suites as a pilot program. "This is a test for us," Rucker said.

 

[WDWKOOK]

This is part of an article posted on the Orlando Sentinal which mentions how the WDW Resorts are getting renovated and the Tower Club 14th floor is part of it, so here is what the article says about it.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/busi...y-princess-hotel-rooms-20110425,0,89771.story

Quote:
Rucker said Disney is also developing new plans for the suites in its deluxe hotels — beginning with 23 in Disney's Contemporary Resort that will be refurbished to attract health-conscious travelers. Disney says it will convert the entire 14th floor of that hotel to a health-and-wellness theme, complete with a private yoga studio, custom-designed menus, and concierge services.

The rooms themselves will be outfitted with amenities such as bamboo floors, low-allergen pillows and mattresses, exercise equipment and massage tables. Disney says it expects the suites to open by November.

Some experts think those rooms may prove a tricky sell, even for Disney.

"For them to carve out any inventory and specialize in those kind of rooms, I'm not sure they're going to see a lot of returns," said Scott Smith, a lodging instructor in the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management. "It seems to me that it's such a small, niche market, whereas families going to Disney who like princesses or pirates are huge."

Disney says it views the Contemporary suites as a pilot program. "This is a test for us," Rucker said.



Thanks for posting this - very interesting.

Now, of all the things they could do with the Tower Club, this is what they are planning? I can't imagine a dumber plan for an entire floor of mostly suites next to the MK. This is really bizarre and I don't know who they think their target consumer is for this theming. Isn't there already a concierge up there? Yoga and custom (snack?) menus. It doesn't seem particularly family-friendly or appealing to those with children. Is this intended for convention-goers? The suites at the CR are expected to open in November the article says, but it doesn't give a year. If it's this year, then I wonder how soon they'll begin the renovations? The renovations at the other resorts mentioned, such as POR, will end in March or February of 2012.

If this is a test program, I have a feeling the yoga/custom snack menu "test" won't leave the 14th floor. Even those "test" computers in the rooms were canceled and never made it to the other resorts and that was actually a good idea. They're also testing limited access free WiFi now at the CR. I wonder why it is that the CR seems to always be the test site for WDW resorts? But, I digress...

 

[WDWKOOK]

Here are some artist's renderings of the Tower Club suites (very contemporary) and a link to more info. on the proposed WDW resort room makeovers:

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2011/04/specialty-rooms-will-give-guests-the-royal-treatment/

 

[myweegirls]

This might be a ridiculously silly question, but the closer we get to leaving on our vacation, the more detailed my packing plans are getting!

We're staying 8 nights in a BLT studio (renting points - our first DVC property stay!), and I'm wondering how stocked the kitchenette is. Specifically, are there measuring cups?

Thanks for any help! Can't believe we drive out just two weeks from tomorrow...

XO
Liz

 

[MrsBlovesDisney]

Quote:
Rucker said Disney is also developing new plans for the suites in its deluxe hotels — beginning with 23 in Disney's Contemporary Resort that will be refurbished to attract health-conscious travelers. Disney says it will convert the entire 14th floor of that hotel to a health-and-wellness theme, complete with a private yoga studio, custom-designed menus, and concierge services.

The rooms themselves will be outfitted with amenities such as bamboo floors, low-allergen pillows and mattresses, exercise equipment and massage tables. Disney says it expects the suites to open by November.

Some experts think those rooms may prove a tricky sell, even for Disney.

"For them to carve out any inventory and specialize in those kind of rooms, I'm not sure they're going to see a lot of returns," said Scott Smith, a lodging instructor in the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management. "It seems to me that it's such a small, niche market, whereas families going to Disney who like princesses or pirates are huge."

Disney says it views the Contemporary suites as a pilot program. "This is a test for us," Rucker said.



Thanks for posting this - very interesting.

Now, of all the things they could do with the Tower Club, this is what they are planning? I can't imagine a dumber plan for an entire floor of mostly suites next to the MK. This is really bizarre and I don't know who they think their target consumer is for this theming. Isn't there already a concierge up there? Yoga and custom (snack?) menus. It doesn't seem particularly family-friendly or appealing to those with children. Is this intended for convention-goers? The suites at the CR are expected to open in November the article says, but it doesn't give a year. If it's this year, then I wonder how soon they'll begin the renovations? The renovations at the other resorts mentioned, such as POR, will end in March or February of 2012.

If this is a test program, I have a feeling the yoga/custom snack menu "test" won't leave the 14th floor. Even those "test" computers in the rooms were canceled and never made it to the other resorts and that was actually a good idea. They're also testing limited access free WiFi now at the CR. I wonder why it is that the CR seems to always be the test site for WDW resorts? But, I digress...

I couldn't agree more!! What are they thinking???? Personally, I prefer to stay on the 12th floor....(LOVE to be able to look down upon the concourse) as opposed to the 14th floor(where it's enclosed - it just feels so claustrophobic to me).

But with these new proposed changes I just can't imagine who is going to stay up there (certainly won't be me). Time will tell I guess.

 

[ZZUB]

Now, of all the things they could do with the Tower Club, this is what they are planning? I can't imagine a dumber plan for an entire floor of mostly suites next to the MK. This is really bizarre and I don't know who they think their target consumer is for this theming. Isn't there already a concierge up there? Yoga and custom (snack?) menus. It doesn't seem particularly family-friendly or appealing to those with children. Is this intended for convention-goers? The suites at the CR are expected to open in November the article says, but it doesn't give a year. If it's this year, then I wonder how soon they'll begin the renovations? The renovations at the other resorts mentioned, such as POR, will end in March or February of 2012.

If this is a test program, I have a feeling the yoga/custom snack menu "test" won't leave the 14th floor. Even those "test" computers in the rooms were canceled and never made it to the other resorts and that was actually a good idea. They're also testing limited access free WiFi now at the CR. I wonder why it is that the CR seems to always be the test site for WDW resorts? But, I digress...

I couldn't agree more. Although the pictures of the room certainly look attractive, it's hard to imagine that there is THAT big a market for people who want to take Yoga, eat organic AND have a view of the MK. Seems like they've just severely limited the pool of people who might be interested in staying on the 14th floor.

I'd say Disney has sufficiently done their market research but recent history would teach otherwise. Which genius decided to build the Stich Dance Party stage in Tomorrowland? That show didn't last a year, did it?

And I agree with you about the computers. Those were a great idea and if fully implimented would have been an attractive option for guests. Plus, I imagine they'd cut down some on their labor costs.

But at the end of the day, we still love Disney in spite of the decisions they make.

 

[dvczerfs]

This might be a ridiculously silly question, but the closer we get to leaving on our vacation, the more detailed my packing plans are getting!

We're staying 8 nights in a BLT studio (renting points - our first DVC property stay!), and I'm wondering how stocked the kitchenette is. Specifically, are there measuring cups?

Thanks for any help! Can't believe we drive out just two weeks from tomorrow...

XO
Liz

a studio wont have a stocked kitchen, plates etc... you will get a small fridge and a small microwave. 1,2,3 bedroom units have fully stocked kitchens.

 

[myweegirls]

a studio wont have a stocked kitchen, plates etc... you will get a small fridge and a small microwave. 1,2,3 bedroom units have fully stocked kitchens.

Awesome - thanks! Now I know we'll need some bowls for cereal, flatware...and a half-cup measure so I don't eat too much cereal.

XO
Liz

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

WDWKOOK,
Thanks for posting those pictures and that link. I also wanted to say I agree with everything you said and I can't picture those changes happening to the 14th floor. Now as I said before we enjoyed the Atrium Club 12th floor because of the bigger lounge and etc even before this announcement. However since the 14th floor is getting a different menu of food offerings from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM how will that effect the 12th floor since as of right now both of them are exactly the same.

 

[crcurton]

Just dropping by this thread....even though we are staying at the Poly this year (family request), my heart is at the BLT/CR.

 

[Holly324]

I would use the Contemporary address because all packages mailed to them go to their convention center.

I just saw that they might charge a delivery fee. How much would that be if that is the case? Thank you!

 

[Mary T in PA]

Our fam does have reservations for a suite on the 14th FL in late Nov/early Dec and this has been booked for awhile. We like the 14th FL.

What I am drawing a blank at is how the 1 bd room suites will be set up. Currently they had ample room in the living room area with a complete full bath, which was great fro our family,a nice bar/kitchen area and a full size dining table. then the bedroom was like a regular room prior to the refurb of several years ago. I loved the vanity in both baths since it didn't have the silly long sinks that serve no real purpose when it comes to families.

I am not real thrilled with the theming of these new rooms at all. We had great closet space as well as 2 full baths... from what I can tell, I have no idea where the heck our stuff is gonna go! And I don't give a hoot about a rainforest shower or tea tree oils. I want Disney theme, not health theme!!

Did the 14th FL need a refurb? Sure... but not this! Why not something that speaks of the future since the MK View looks right at the peak of Space Mountain and Astro Orbiter?

Just my initial thoughts.. hopefully we will see some real pics as the project moves along and my outlook will be more positive. I am just a bit surprised at the theming of the refurb more than anything. Health and wellness. wow.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

I just saw that they might charge a delivery fee. How much would that be if that is the case? Thank you!

I am not sure but I think it could be between $5.00 or $15.00, so I guess it depends on the item.

 

[WDWKOOK]

I found some 2010 posts regarding shipping to the CR here:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=35506927&highlight=shipping#post35506927


Quote:
Originally Posted by Texasfan
Has anyone ever UPS your luggage to the CR? If so how did it work out and what information did you put on the lauggage to make sure you got it? Did you have it arrive a day early or on the same day?


Csaribay answered: Keep in mind that any packages sent via courier (Fedex, UPS, DHL to name a few) will be handled by the Business Center, which will incur a handling fee - even if you pick it up yourself. This is true at all Disney convention resorts. Only US Mail is exempt from these charges as they go directly to the Front Desk.


JanetMom answered: We haven't sent anything, but when we asked the question, recently, about having something shipped to the CR they sent us an e-mail with the following information:


You can ship to the following:
Disney's Contemporary Resort
4600 North World Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Attention: YOUR NAME and ARRIVAL DATE

 

[hstrickland]

Just dropping by this thread....even though we are staying at the Poly this year (family request), my heart is at the BLT/CR.

I think my DH is just the opposite...he loves the Poly...and not that I don't, it probably is my favorite, but the CR holds a special place in my heart. This is the resort that we stayed in numerous times when I was a child. We are taking my parents along, so my dad is super excited to go back.

We received our resort info in the mail this past week...well...when DD5 opened it at the table, she took one look at the picture of the CR and shouted, "This is NOT the Poly CL!" I thought my husband was going to choke her!! He quickly reminded her that the CR is the resort that she and her brothers chose. Immediately she changed her tune DS9 could not be more excited about the CR and the monorail. I keep telling DH that he will really like the CR, and REALLY love the view!....I can hardly wait....less than a month

 

[WDWKOOK]

WDWKOOK,
Thanks for posting those pictures and that link. I also wanted to say I agree with everything you said and I can't picture those changes happening to the 14th floor. Now as I said before we enjoyed the Atrium Club 12th floor because of the bigger lounge and etc even before this announcement. However since the 14th floor is getting a different menu of food offerings from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM how will that effect the 12th floor since as of right now both of them are exactly the same.

You're welcome. You're right that as of right now the food is the same, although I've never stayed on the Tower Club floor. Maybe they'll raise the prices to make-up for having to prepare different food? Or maybe they'll have the same food as the Atrium Club, but add food from the Wave. The Wave has a lot of that organic frou-frou fare.

I wonder if the rehab. noise will be able to be heard on the 12th floor?

Our fam does have reservations for a suite on the 14th FL in late Nov/early Dec and this has been booked for awhile. We like the 14th FL.

What I am drawing a blank at is how the 1 bd room suites will be set up. Currently they had ample room in the living room area with a complete full bath, which was great fro our family,a nice bar/kitchen area and a full size dining table. then the bedroom was like a regular room prior to the refurb of several years ago. I loved the vanity in both baths since it didn't have the silly long sinks that serve no real purpose when it comes to families.

I am not real thrilled with the theming of these new rooms at all. We had great closet space as well as 2 full baths... from what I can tell, I have no idea where the heck our stuff is gonna go! And I don't give a hoot about a rainforest shower or tea tree oils. I want Disney theme, not health theme!!

Did the 14th FL need a refurb? Sure... but not this! Why not something that speaks of the future since the MK View looks right at the peak of Space Mountain and Astro Orbiter?

Just my initial thoughts.. hopefully we will see some real pics as the project moves along and my outlook will be more positive. I am just a bit surprised at the theming of the refurb more than anything. Health and wellness. wow.

I don't have to tell you that we would all LOVE some photos when you get back from the 14th floor.

Change is bittersweet at WDW. Some changes benefit the consumer and some benefit Disney more. We won't really know how beneficial this change is until, as you said, we see some photos. I suspect the themed pirate rooms have been quite profitable for WDW, so the trend is going to continue. I personally love the proposed décor, but appreciate guests like you who loved the way the room was originally configured.

Can't wait for your photos and frou-frou fare review

Just dropping by this thread....even though we are staying at the Poly this year (family request), my heart is at the BLT/CR.

Why not do a split-stay? That's what we're doing

I think my DH is just the opposite...he loves the Poly...and not that I don't, it probably is my favorite, but the CR holds a special place in my heart. This is the resort that we stayed in numerous times when I was a child. We are taking my parents along, so my dad is super excited to go back.

We received our resort info in the mail this past week...well...when DD5 opened it at the table, she took one look at the picture of the CR and shouted, "This is NOT the Poly CL!" I thought my husband was going to choke her!! He quickly reminded her that the CR is the resort that she and her brothers chose. Immediately she changed her tune DS9 could not be more excited about the CR and the monorail. I keep telling DH that he will really like the CR, and REALLY love the view!....I can hardly wait....less than a month

They will love the CR. Don't forget to file a TR with us when you can

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

I wonder if the rehab. noise will be able to be heard on the 12th floor?

I honestly don't think it will because as I have said in the past on the 14th floor you can't hear anything or look down onto the 4th floor like all the other floors in the Tower.