The All New Grand Floridian FAQ - MAY 2009

[mmmears]

Wow! The afternoon snacks in RPC look great! Definitely enough choices there for us (and even some healthy ones),. Thanks again for the photos, I'm really enjoying them.

 

[Tinks]

Okay, everyone, post more! I am taking my mom to the GF in July (11 - 14) and can't get enough of the chatter and the photos. I am really looking forward to this! I've been before, but this will be her first trip to the GF. I splurged and got us RPC. She's going to be so excited! She doesn't know where we're staying and this is right up her alley. She's never been pampered or stayed high level resort before.

Anyway, thinking of doing the Minnie with the chocolate "pearl" necklace strawberries for her in our room. It's her birthday in later July. Any other fun ideas? Thought about a cabana, but I don't think we'd use the amenities in it really. I still haven't been contacted by IPO. It's disappointing, but not surprising. I'll end up contacting them as our trip gets closer. It's too bad the club service is cutting back.


Oh well. Just being there will be enough.

 

[heatherlynn444]

Okay, everyone, post more! I am taking my mom to the GF in July (11 - 14) and can't get enough of the chatter and the photos. I am really looking forward to this! I've been before, but this will be her first trip to the GF. I splurged and got us RPC. She's going to be so excited! She doesn't know where we're staying and this is right up her alley. She's never been pampered or stayed high level resort before.

Anyway, thinking of doing the Minnie with the chocolate "pearl" necklace strawberries for her in our room. It's her birthday in later July. Any other fun ideas? Thought about a cabana, but I don't think we'd use the amenities in it really. I still haven't been contacted by IPO. It's disappointing, but not surprising. I'll end up contacting them as our trip gets closer. It's too bad the club service is cutting back.


Oh well. Just being there will be enough.

what do you mean you havent been contacted by the IPO? have you called or e mailed them firsT? I have never known them to contact me unless I make contact with them first, and thent hey have always been helpful.

we are taking my aunt at the end of July, and our trip kinda sounds the same. she has never stayed anywhere nice before in ehr life (shes 63) and is just going to die! she has no idea how nice it is there!

 

[Tinks]

what do you mean you havent been contacted by the IPO? have you called or e mailed them firsT? I have never known them to contact me unless I make contact with them first, and thent hey have always been helpful.

we are taking my aunt at the end of July, and our trip kinda sounds the same. she has never stayed anywhere nice before in ehr life (shes 63) and is just going to die! she has no idea how nice it is there!

In the past, IPO always contacted you soon after you made your resort club reservation. You filled out a form (emailed to you) and made your requests for dining, tours, and anything else at that time. It's my opinion that it's completely ridiculous that you should have to contact them first. Many people staying club level for the first time wouldn't even know to do that. Yes, service in the recent past has diminished to the point where I don't even know if they send out that form any more. I've also read of other cutbacks on service in club level. Oh well. It is what it is. Eventually I will stop paying those prices for that level of service, especially after the new four seasons opens nearby.


But back to more enjoyable things! My mom sounds a lot like your aunt. Can't wait to show her the magic of a wonderful resort stay.

 

[heatherlynn444]

In the past, IPO always contacted you soon after you made your resort club reservation. You filled out a form (emailed to you) and made your requests for dining, tours, and anything else at that time. It's my opinion that it's completely ridiculous that you should have to contact them first. Many people staying club level for the first time wouldn't even know to do that. Yes, service in the recent past has diminished to the point where I don't even know if they send out that form any more. I've also read of other cutbacks on service in club level. Oh well. It is what it is. Eventually I will stop paying those prices for that level of service, especially after the new four seasons opens nearby.


But back to more enjoyable things! My mom sounds a lot like your aunt. Can't wait to show her the magic of a wonderful resort stay.

the 4 times in the past 3 years we have stayed RPC we have never been contacte dby IPO first and I have never even heard of that form lol. must be something old they used to do. I think so many ppl book stuff now then cancel it they probbaly got tired of doing stuff for ppl who eventually didn't even stay there. I know someone (I cant remember who) was worried about the food offerings getting cut back but last week they were the same as they have always been

 

[Calissto31]

BelleNBeast Thanks for the crocs link! Enjoy your first GF stay!

Calissto31 What a great place to spend your first anniversary...and what a nice surprise...have you planned any special events to help celebrate your anniversary...any special dinners?

Hi BlueSkies

Yes we are going to have a private in room dining on the day we arrive and then I have a reservation for dinner at Le Cellier Steakhouse on July 4th....Can't wait!

 

[shoppgirl]

I still haven't been contacted by IPO. It's disappointing, but not surprising. I'll end up contacting them as our trip gets closer. It's too bad the club service is cutting back.


Oh well. Just being there will be enough.

Sorry to hear that! We booked our SL room in January, and a month later, in February I received a letter/form from the WDW Resort Itinerary Planning Office that said the Grand Floridian's itinerary planners would be happy to assit me in any/all of my planning. From this point, I was in contact with the GF IPO by filling out this form and forwarding it to the GF.

I sent in my ADRs a couple of weeks early. By doing this, I also made plenty of changes, all via email. So needless to say I was quite nervous when my 90 day window was opening as I had no idea what they had on record as they never acknowledged my changes. The day of, DH called and they had everything right so I worried for nothing. Unfortunately, they were still unable to get me everything I wanted (going during free dining, even though we're not using free dining, but a room discount). They say they will try their best to see if they can get us in, but who knows how hard they try to find you that ressie? I was thankful to have the IPO get me my ADRs anyways, I would have been a nervous wreck that morning trying to get through the phone lines. One email I received said that they have a CM check emails at 6:30 am every day for any important requests. They also helped me arrange for my magical express as I just recently purchased our airfare going down.


If you really want the services of the IPO, it's not a big deal to send the GF an email at www.Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com and introduce yourself. They really do try to help you with any request you have, big or small.

Good luck with your planning!

 

[Tinks]

Sorry to hear that! We booked our SL room in January, and a month later, in February I received a letter/form from the WDW Resort Itinerary Planning Office that said the Grand Floridian's itinerary planners would be happy to assit me in any/all of my planning. From this point, I was in contact with the GF IPO by filling out this form and forwarding it to the GF.

I sent in my ADRs a couple of weeks early. By doing this, I also made plenty of changes, all via email. So needless to say I was quite nervous when my 90 day window was opening as I had no idea what they had on record as they never acknowledged my changes. The day of, DH called and they had everything right so I worried for nothing. Unfortunately, they were still unable to get me everything I wanted (going during free dining, even though we're not using free dining, but a room discount). They say they will try their best to see if they can get us in, but who knows how hard they try to find you that ressie? I was thankful to have the IPO get me my ADRs anyways, I would have been a nervous wreck that morning trying to get through the phone lines. One email I received said that they have a CM check emails at 6:30 am every day for any important requests. They also helped me arrange for my magical express as I just recently purchased our airfare going down.


If you really want the services of the IPO, it's not a big deal to send the GF an email at www.Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com and introduce yourself. They really do try to help you with any request you have, big or small.

Good luck with your planning!

Thank you very much. I do plan to contact them in a bit. I'm happy to hear that they contacted you and made plans for you. This service has been spotty lately, unfortunately. It is very nice when it works like it should! I hope you have a great trip!

 

[gonzo76]

Good Morning. I am at 50 days now till we stay at GF. I feel I just can't wait anymore. The days seem to be going slower and slower. I really don't think it is ever going to get here.

This is the first time at GF. It has always been our dream. Does anyone know of time machine?

 

[heatherlynn444]

Sorry to hear that! We booked our SL room in January, and a month later, in February I received a letter/form from the WDW Resort Itinerary Planning Office that said the Grand Floridian's itinerary planners would be happy to assit me in any/all of my planning. From this point, I was in contact with the GF IPO by filling out this form and forwarding it to the GF.

I sent in my ADRs a couple of weeks early. By doing this, I also made plenty of changes, all via email. So needless to say I was quite nervous when my 90 day window was opening as I had no idea what they had on record as they never acknowledged my changes. The day of, DH called and they had everything right so I worried for nothing. Unfortunately, they were still unable to get me everything I wanted (going during free dining, even though we're not using free dining, but a room discount). They say they will try their best to see if they can get us in, but who knows how hard they try to find you that ressie? I was thankful to have the IPO get me my ADRs anyways, I would have been a nervous wreck that morning trying to get through the phone lines. One email I received said that they have a CM check emails at 6:30 am every day for any important requests. They also helped me arrange for my magical express as I just recently purchased our airfare going down.


If you really want the services of the IPO, it's not a big deal to send the GF an email at www.Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com and introduce yourself. They really do try to help you with any request you have, big or small.

Good luck with your planning!

just curious, did you book through disney or a travel agent?

 

[jkstewart1800]

In the standard rooms I was told you can fit a pack in play in the sink area if you move the wicker hamper.

To make it more like a room I was planning on putting up shower curtain rod with black out material hanging down.

So here is my question: How wide is that space, up by the ceiling? I want to make sure that I have the right length rod and enough fabric.

Is there anyone there right now who can 'measure' this space for me?

Thank you thank you thank you


I have tried calling mousekeeping and some others at the resort, but was unable to get my question answered.

 

[heatherlynn444]

more breakfast

Cabana

waterslide from bridge

 

[jkstewart1800]

more breakfast

Cabana

waterslide from bridge

I CAN'T STAND IT!!!! I am so EXCITED!!! seeing those pictures just makes me SMILE BIG!!! We rented a cabana too, so that will be fun to try that out - I LOVE the close up shot of it!!!


48 days!!!

 

[LJD2143]

Sorry to hear that! We booked our SL room in January, and a month later, in February I received a letter/form from the WDW Resort Itinerary Planning Office that said the Grand Floridian's itinerary planners would be happy to assit me in any/all of my planning. From this point, I was in contact with the GF IPO by filling out this form and forwarding it to the GF.

I sent in my ADRs a couple of weeks early. By doing this, I also made plenty of changes, all via email. So needless to say I was quite nervous when my 90 day window was opening as I had no idea what they had on record as they never acknowledged my changes. The day of, DH called and they had everything right so I worried for nothing. Unfortunately, they were still unable to get me everything I wanted (going during free dining, even though we're not using free dining, but a room discount). They say they will try their best to see if they can get us in, but who knows how hard they try to find you that ressie? I was thankful to have the IPO get me my ADRs anyways, I would have been a nervous wreck that morning trying to get through the phone lines. One email I received said that they have a CM check emails at 6:30 am every day for any important requests. They also helped me arrange for my magical express as I just recently purchased our airfare going down.


If you really want the services of the IPO, it's not a big deal to send the GF an email at www.Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com and introduce yourself. They really do try to help you with any request you have, big or small.

Good luck with your planning!

Thank you very much. I do plan to contact them in a bit. I'm happy to hear that they contacted you and made plans for you. This service has been spotty lately, unfortunately. It is very nice when it works like it should! I hope you have a great trip!

I'm in the same boat with Tinks........

Our trip is in September, and around our 180-day-mark I received the Welcome Email from the WDW Resort Itinerary Planning Office, including a 'form' for me to complete with my Contact Info, Flight Info, Dining Reservations, etc...
I filled out the form and emailed it to GF IPO (Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com) on June 3rd (about 118 days out). The automated email response stated the following:

"Thank you for contacting the Walt Disney World Resort Itinerary Planning
Office. It will be our pleasure to assist you with any questions or
requests pertaining to your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort
reservation. You will receive a response from a member of our team
within 24 hours of receipt of this message."

Two days later I still had not heard back, so I sent another email on the 5th, requesting a confirmation that they have received my info. All of my correspondance has been kind and considerate. Their email specifically states that you will receive a reply within 24 hours.

Today's the 8th, 5 days after my original email, and I have not heard back from them at all.

I know, I know - I should give them a call. But 1st of all, my communication preference is via email, especially since I am at work. Secondly, I was thinking it would be easier and more efficient for them to respond to an email, rather than having to answer a million phone calls. If I kindly request an email reply, is that too much to ask?

 

[dpndka]

Thanks for the beautiful pics Heather! The refurb'd Cabanas look really nice.

 

[Fishy&2guppies]

I am in the same boat. I cannot get the itinerary office to respond to me. I have tried email, and phoning. No response on email, and I sit on hold forever on the phone and no one comes on. I don't know what to do, I'm chasing these people around.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

I am in the same boat. I cannot get the itinerary office to respond to me. I have tried email, and phoning. No response on email, and I sit on hold forever on the phone and no one comes on. I don't know what to do, I'm chasing these people around.

I am not trying to make excuses for the Grand Floridian IPO Cast Members not responding to your calls and e-mails, however they also do the same services for the Contemporary Club Level guests. So maybe they also busy trying help those guests.

 

[BlueSkies]

Hi BlueSkies

Yes we are going to have a private in room dining on the day we arrive and then I have a reservation for dinner at Le Cellier Steakhouse on July 4th....Can't wait!

Calissto Those sound like two very nice dining plans...I love the way the CMs come in and set up the in room dining...table cloth and all..so nice! And we loved eating at Le Cellier on our last trip...the cheddar cheese soup and pretzel bread are delicious! Enjoy!

Good Morning. I am at 50 days now till we stay at GF. I feel I just can't wait anymore. The days seem to be going slower and slower. I really don't think it is ever going to get here.

This is the first time at GF. It has always been our dream. Does anyone know of time machine?

gonzo Sorry no time machine...but I am so excited for you! It will be a wonderful trip...chatting with other GF fans is really the best way to pass the time!

jkstewart We fit not one but two pack and plays in that area out side of the bathroom...we did not hang anything up because that area is not near any windows and is pretty dark....

To all of those waiting to hear from GF IPO...we sent them our ADR cabana etc requests and at the 90 day mark they emailed us our itinerary...very simple...I would definitely want to know that they recieved my requests...but will say that in our experience they are very efficient! Good Luck...

 

[BlueSkies]

Heatherlynn Thanks for more delicious pics!! The pool and cabana ones are nice too!

 

[shoppgirl]

just curious, did you book through disney or a travel agent?

Hi, I booked my room only reservation through Disney directly.

Everytime I write the GF IPO I automatically get that response that somebody will contact me within 24 hours of sending my email. Depending on the content of my email or requests/comments/questions, I may get a response, I may not.

I actually called Dining to get an ADR at Cali Grill because I could not trust the GF to do it for me. They supposedly tried once, and they said no availability. I called dining that night and got one myself. I then sent the Confirm # to the IPO and asked them to add it to my itinerary and send me another one.

I have called once before to give them my credit card for ADR gaurantees and someone always picked up right away. When DH called, somebody picked up right away too. I also like to do all communications via email, and it is frustrating when you send an email and you do not get a response back.

Sadly, we sometimes have to take control of things and do it ourselves if we want it done right. Good luck to all in your planning!