The All New Grand Floridian FAQ - MAY 2009

[phyllis1966]

phyllis1966, welcome back and thanks for updating us. Congrats on the upgrade. We've had that view from Conch Key three times....it's amazing, isn't it? It must have been especially magical once the castle was in its holiday finery.

Did you dine at any Gf restaurants this trip?

Can't wait to see your photos.

I'll just say again that I am ruined for any other view at the GF now!

We dined at Citricos on our first night - it was wonderful as always. I've waited 2 years to go back and have that Tropical Fruit Creme Brulee, and it was just as delicious as I remembered! It was the only dessert, and there were quite a few over the course of the week, that I finished completely. It was embarrassing how clean the dish was after I was done!

DD10 loves breakfast at 1900 PF, and as usual, it didn't disappoint. The bread pudding is my favorite thing there. We also had breakfast on our last day at the GF Cafe. It was also as good as always, except for the Vegetable Frittata that my DM and DMIL ordered - wow, they both hated it. It was eggwhites only, which was not stated on the menu, but very bland, as per my Mom. DMIL, who'll eat just about anything and say it's good, actually described it to me as "brutal." Of course, they were graciously accomodated and had the American Breakfast (yum) served to them within 5 minutes.

Just being back at the GF does wonders for the soul. My first favorite thing is the fragrance of the lobby as I walk in for the first time each trip - it really welcomes me back. My Mom had not been back to WDW since her first trip in 2003 with us - she was ecstatic all week - she loves the GF as much as DH and I do, and all of you guys on the GF thread, so she was blissful, to say the least. She saved up all these years to get back there, so it was a real treat.

I miss it so much already...

 

[phyllis1966]

Is there any schedule of the entertainment (band, piano player, etc) ever published in advance. I am planning to take my parents to DW GF in Dec and want them to expierience the sounds of the GF band and piano players.

I'm not sure if there's a schedule, but either the orchestra or the pianist was playing every evening as we returned from our activities. It was so sweet to watch the Dads and their little princesses dancing together...

 

[Figment1990]

Just being back at the GF does wonders for the soul. My first favorite thing is the fragrance of the lobby as I walk in for the first time each trip - it really welcomes me back. My Mom had not been back to WDW since her first trip in 2003 with us - she was ecstatic all week - she loves the GF as much as DH and I do, and all of you guys on the GF thread, so she was blissful, to say the least. She saved up all these years to get back there, so it was a real treat.

I miss it so much already...

Phyllis1966 - Welcome back! I know what you mean about the scent of the GF! I had read about it before our first trip there last August and I was amazed at how much it actually did enhance my stay there. Ahhh....

Sounds like you had a great trip!

To everyone else - Just had to pop back in here to my favorite thread and say thanks to y'all for being such happy vacation planners/go-ers. I was just over in another forum for a few non-resort questions and boy, I got some replies with attitude. I missed you all so much I had to post. Thanks for the Disney (cheer).

 

[BCV23]

Can someone tell me how long of a cab ride it is from GF to DTD? Also, what was the approximate cost? thanks!

Consider this a bump as we've never taken a cab to DTD so I can't help with cost.

As for time, it shouldn't be more than 10 minutes if the cabbie goes the shorter way. That is to take a left out of the GF and then another left to go past the Polynesian. Right at the light. Go past FW, right on Bonnet Creek, left on Vacation Club or something like that and right to DTD.

 

[*KeepMovingForward*]

Can someone tell me how long of a cab ride it is from GF to DTD? Also, what was the approximate cost? thanks!

I can't give you a price from GF, but I can tell you that we took a cab last month from BLT to DTD West Side and it cost us $28 not including the tip. I'd think from GF the price is about the same. Time wise, it was about 10 minutes.

 

[BCV23]

I'll just say again that I am ruined for any other view at the GF now!

We dined at Citricos on our first night - it was wonderful as always. I've waited 2 years to go back and have that Tropical Fruit Creme Brulee, and it was just as delicious as I remembered! It was the only dessert, and there were quite a few over the course of the week, that I finished completely. It was embarrassing how clean the dish was after I was done!

DD10 loves breakfast at 1900 PF, and as usual, it didn't disappoint. The bread pudding is my favorite thing there. We also had breakfast on our last day at the GF Cafe. It was also as good as always, except for the Vegetable Frittata that my DM and DMIL ordered - wow, they both hated it. It was eggwhites only, which was not stated on the menu, but very bland, as per my Mom. DMIL, who'll eat just about anything and say it's good, actually described it to me as "brutal." Of course, they were graciously accomodated and had the American Breakfast (yum) served to them within 5 minutes.

Just being back at the GF does wonders for the soul. My first favorite thing is the fragrance of the lobby as I walk in for the first time each trip - it really welcomes me back. My Mom had not been back to WDW since her first trip in 2003 with us - she was ecstatic all week - she loves the GF as much as DH and I do, and all of you guys on the GF thread, so she was blissful, to say the least. She saved up all these years to get back there, so it was a real treat.

I miss it so much already...

It sounds perfect.

I laughed about your creme brulee and the "brutal" frittata.

To everyone else - Just had to pop back in here to my favorite thread and say thanks to y'all for being such happy vacation planners/go-ers. I was just over in another forum for a few non-resort questions and boy, I got some replies with attitude. I missed you all so much I had to post. Thanks for the Disney (cheer).

Aw, sorry that happened to you.

Glad you popped over here!

 

[BlueSkies]

Just thinking of that GF lobby makes me wish that I was there right now...


Figmanet So sorry to hear that happened to you...

 

[HannahBug]

We are staying at the GF for 9 days (first time) I am trying to get advice on what to do about my daughter and I waiting to get pedicures until we actually get to Disney. I have looked and do not really see anything about where to go. We would probably like to do the GF Spa or Saratoga Springs? Anybody have any info for me. I know we could get them alot cheaper if did before leaving for trip but thought the experience may be nice......

 

[lala3291]

Hello All! Just booked RPC-Theme Park View on the 4/3 deal for the beginning of March We were originally scheduled to go in December, then changed to March in Sugar Loaf. When we saw the 4/3 deal was available for RPC TPV, we jumped on it! We are so excited! When we stayed in RPC in 2007, we were lucky enough to get a theme park view and we loved it!
Just had to share! Looking forward to reading more on this thread!

 

[BCV23]

We are staying at the GF for 9 days (first time) I am trying to get advice on what to do about my daughter and I waiting to get pedicures until we actually get to Disney. I have looked and do not really see anything about where to go. We would probably like to do the GF Spa or Saratoga Springs? Anybody have any info for me. I know we could get them alot cheaper if did before leaving for trip but thought the experience may be nice......

Here's a link to the GF spa and prices. http://relaxedyet.com/gf_treatments.asp

I like both spas. SSR is much larger and feels more like a spa but if we're at the GF or Polynesian for that matter, it is so pleasant to stroll to the GF spa.

Hello All! Just booked RPC-Theme Park View on the 4/3 deal for the beginning of March We were originally scheduled to go in December, then changed to March in Sugar Loaf. When we saw the 4/3 deal was available for RPC TPV, we jumped on it! We are so excited! When we stayed in RPC in 2007, we were lucky enough to get a theme park view and we loved it!
Just had to share! Looking forward to reading more on this thread!

Very exciting! March is a lovely time at WDW I think. Happy planning.

 

[leane]

I am finally on my last triple digit day Couldn't be happier! (BCV - i got it right this time )

I am pretty sad that we had to downgrade the room from TPV to GV but I will just be happy to be there. Mabye we will get some pixie dust.
I do have to call and ask if we can be as close to the main building as possible. My mom needs to have heart surgery and she won't do it until after the trip. The cardiologist said waiting might not be in her best interest but she refuses to do it until after the trip. She said if she died she didnt want to do it over the holidays.... what a grim reaper.... I can call and make that closest to the main building with the regular CM right?

I am glad someone asked about taxi travel time to DTD we have La Nuba tickets and I was going to allow 45 minutes for the taxi ride. I googled it and it told me 45 minutes... i hate google.

On a DVC note -I called my guide and asked him to hold my contract. they just announced a webinar and he said I could possibly get a better deal after watching it.
I wonder if we will ever get this signed

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Figment1990 - sorry to hear about your less-than-magical foray on another forum, that's always so disheartening, isn't it? Hopefully, you will get cheerier answers from here on out!

*KeepMovingForward* - $28+ tip? Yikes! that's pretty steep. We usually pay around $17-$20+ tip from the GF to DTD, depending on traffic. leane, I can't remember how long it takes, but never as long as 45 minutes! BCV23's 10 minutes is more like it, although I think we usually allow 20-30 minutes, to be safe.

We just booked our next stay at the Grand, I can't wait!

 

[Cinderumbrella]

8 more days!!



Can you tell I am excited??? Anyone back recently with any bounceback info?? We are going crazy with anticiaption over on the code board!!

 

[BCV23]

I can't give you a price from GF, but I can tell you that we took a cab last month from BLT to DTD West Side and it cost us $28 not including the tip. I'd think from GF the price is about the same. Time wise, it was about 10 minutes.

I missed this before.....$28...yikes is right!

I am finally on my last triple digit day Couldn't be happier! (BCV - i got it right this time )

I am pretty sad that we had to downgrade the room from TPV to GV but I will just be happy to be there. Mabye we will get some pixie dust.
I do have to call and ask if we can be as close to the main building as possible. My mom needs to have heart surgery and she won't do it until after the trip. The cardiologist said waiting might not be in her best interest but she refuses to do it until after the trip. She said if she died she didnt want to do it over the holidays.... what a grim reaper.... I can call and make that closest to the main building with the regular CM right?

I am glad someone asked about taxi travel time to DTD we have La Nuba tickets and I was going to allow 45 minutes for the taxi ride. I googled it and it told me 45 minutes... i hate google.

On a DVC note -I called my guide and asked him to hold my contract. they just announced a webinar and he said I could possibly get a better deal after watching it.
I wonder if we will ever get this signed

Yes, you can just request close to the main building through Disney Reservation Center. In your case, I would be sure to mention exactly why you're requesting that. GV rooms are beautiful IMO so I wouldn't worry about that.

Did you sign up for a webcast yet? I signed up for one right after we get back from our next trip. We're not in the market for more points but I think it will be fun to watch....as long as it doesn't include DeeVeeCee or however her name is spelled. Good luck with that. More importantly, prayers for your mother.

Figment1990 - sorry to hear about your less-than-magical foray on another forum, that's always so disheartening, isn't it? Hopefully, you will get cheerier answers from here on out!

*KeepMovingForward* - $28+ tip? Yikes! that's pretty steep. We usually pay around $17-$20+ tip from the GF to DTD, depending on traffic. leane, I can't remember how long it takes, but never as long as 45 minutes! BCV23's 10 minutes is more like it, although I think we usually allow 20-30 minutes, to be safe.

We just booked our next stay at the Grand, I can't wait!

Congratulations!!!!! Happy, happy planning!

I think I would allow 20-30 minutes, too. Driving time could easily be closer to that if the cabbie goes down to Buena Vista Drive, don't you think? All those stoplights are killers. The back route is faster but I still always allow cushion.

8 more days!!



Can you tell I am excited??? Anyone back recently with any bounceback info?? We are going crazy with anticiaption over on the code board!!

Very exciting....love that time of year.

No bouncebacks in our room in Sept nor have I seen anyone mention one in the rooms. However, BreezysMom on the Polynesian FAQ asked in the lounge about one and between the concierge and DRC they did find a great rate for her for a future trip.

Have fun!

 

[WUVmyDISNEY]

*Keepmovingforward* and BVC23, thanks for the taxi info. $28 would be a steep price so we shall see! 10-20 minutes make it sound appealing though. Hard to believe in all of my trips that we have never been to DTD lol Getting close now!!

 

[BlueSkies]

8 more days!!



Can you tell I am excited??? Anyone back recently with any bounceback info?? We are going crazy with anticiaption over on the code board!!

Cinderumbrella

lala congratulations! So glad you were able to book RPC with the 4/3 offer! that is a great deal!!

leanne I agree the GV are just lovely...

k&a&c YAY!! when are you going??? Is it soon??? I guess being back on the boards was just too much temptation!!!! I really understand!!!

 

[*KeepMovingForward*]

$28+ tip? Yikes! that's pretty steep. We usually pay around $17-$20+ tip from the GF to DTD, depending on traffic.

I thought it was steep too. We were taken the back way too. It cost us $21 to go from GF to BC. The only thing good about the taxis are they are normally right there when you walk out the resort and very quick. Only once did we have to wait for one and that was when we were coming back from dinner at the Dolphin and the valet there had to call one for us.

 

[leane]

Yes, you can just request close to the main building through Disney Reservation Center. In your case, I would be sure to mention exactly why you're requesting that. GV rooms are beautiful IMO so I wouldn't worry about that.

Did you sign up for a webcast yet? I signed up for one right after we get back from our next trip. We're not in the market for more points but I think it will be fun to watch....as long as it doesn't include DeeVeeCee or however her name is spelled. Good luck with that. More importantly, prayers for your mother.




No bouncebacks in our room in Sept nor have I seen anyone mention one in the rooms. However, BreezysMom on the Polynesian FAQ asked in the lounge about one and between the concierge and DRC they did find a great rate for her for a future trip.

Thanks for the good vibes. I do hope she will be ok. this is my dad all over agian. she needs a valve replacement. I know that means we have a good 7 years with her. Just like my dad.
I did sign up, twice once for my mom and once for us. she wanted to watch too. 12/8 and 12/12. I heard of some people getting 12/1 so maybe I will hear what they were offered prior to me watching a sneak peak
We are looking to add on a small contract. Were thinking 80 pt AKV come Jan. But recently thought of OKW (wish we were going back again before Jan might hold off until Mar to see OKW if we can make it over there)... doesn't look too bad but I think AKV would be more appealing, and I always have BLT to fall back on.

k&a&c's mom. Congrats. We can't stay at the GF for xmas next year so next best we could do is BLT. we will have to visit the GF of course.
I am actually hoping for a good bounceback and maybe then we could do 2 days GF 3 days BLT

 

[leane]

I was wondering if I could get some more drive/travel times. Planning on using the monorail of course but for AK DTD and DHS I was thinking taxi. quicker, less waiting what not. on the way back we might do the bus.

I have an EMH day at AK which I want to take a taxi to get there. I think that bus trip would be the longest, any ideas?

and then DTD I know, 20-30 but how much time does that save from the usual bus ride?

And last the bus vs taxi for DHS

thanks

 

[k&a&c'smom]

k&a&c YAY!! when are you going??? Is it soon??? I guess being back on the boards was just too much temptation!!!! I really understand!!!

LOL - you are so right, the temptation was too great. We have a couple months to wait, it'll be hard, but the holidays should take up some of that time.

k&a&c's mom. Congrats. We can't stay at the GF for xmas next year so next best we could do is BLT. we will have to visit the GF of course.
I am actually hoping for a good bounceback and maybe then we could do 2 days GF 3 days BLT

The photos of the BLT rooms look lovely. We always visit the GF whenever we stay elsewhere, too, for shopping, eating and just soaking up the ambiance! Good luck with your BB.

Best of luck to your mother, too, and I hope she has a wonderful, relaxing trip.

I was wondering if I could get some more drive/travel times. Planning on using the monorail of course but for AK DTD and DHS I was thinking taxi. quicker, less waiting what not. on the way back we might do the bus.

I have an EMH day at AK which I want to take a taxi to get there. I think that bus trip would be the longest, any ideas?

and then DTD I know, 20-30 but how much time does that save from the usual bus ride?

And last the bus vs taxi for DHS

thanks

I wish I were more sure of the drive times to each destination, as we take taxis quite often when we fly down. The best I can tell you is that we try to leave 30-40 minutes before rope drop for AK if taking a taxi, an hour if taking the bus. That's the only park we taxi to get to, if I recall correctly. Mostly because that seems to be the park that we have the worst luck catching a bus - wait, wait, wait. DHS is another issue, since they pick up and drop off at Typhoon Lagoon as well, but we rarely take a taxi there.

When I think about it, we take the bus to DHS, monorail to MK/Epcot, and taxi to AK and DTD. We usually take the bus back from AK, and sometimes from DTD - unless there is bad weather, in which case, we catch a cab. If we have dinner reservations at any resort off the monorail line, we take a cab, so much easier and quicker.

That combination seems to work the best for us.

ETA: - Cinderumbrella, just another week, congrats!