The *New* Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Frequently Asked Questions (FEB2004) Part 2

[BCV23]

I know I read something in this list about someone bringing their own router Maybe Channing??? Anyway, is that how you access internet??

Only 38 to to

Thanks
Vikki

You don't need a router to access the internet. You can use dial up or connect to high speed (sort of high speed ). We do the latter. It is $9.99/24 contiguous hours and a cable is provided. It's in the closet.

People use routers if they want WiFi within their rooms through the above connection. There is WiFi in the lobby but with a separate $9.99/24 charge.

HTH. Happy planning.

 

[BCV23]

Do any of you know where the handicap accessible rooms with roll in showers are located, both concierge and non. Thanks so much... you all are awesome!

We've had accessible rooms with rollin showers in Conch Key and Sugar Loaf. I know there is at least one with what used to be called lagoon view. One trip we were supposed to be in that room the first night and then MK view the rest but they ended up putting us in Conch Key for all nights which was very, very nice.

Janet2K was in an accessible room in RPC and I think it was rollin shower but I'm not positive.

The accessible bathrooms we've had at the GF are the best we've had anywhere. I know there are some newly remodeled ones at the Polynesian and we're looking forward to having one of those in May.

 

[3for Me]

Tinkeroo - thank you for responding to my post.

I admit I am still not sure what type of room to request so I am hoping if I give you and everyone else who has experieced the GF my priorities then maybe you can advise me. Truly the view is not so important. I guess I want to make sure I get the best possible room. I would like to be conveniently/centrally located to everything. I am not opposed to purchasing the concierge level (if that is best) but I am on the DDP and did not think we would use it. Please help, as you can see I am confused only because I want to make sure I get the best possible room.

The most centrally located rooms would definately be in the Main Building which is in fact RPC - concierge. If you are on the DDP, I can assure you that you will use the lounge (at least for food offerings) very little. At least that has been our experience, and my family can EAT!!

That said, none of the buildings are a far walk from the Main Building. A couple of minutes, tops. Additionally, the walk is LOVELY. If it is more space you are looking for then you might consider a deluxe room in RPC or one of the rooms in Sugar Loaf (are they turret rooms??). Note that those rooms are request only as I understand it - no guarantees on getting one. There are also corner rooms one or more of the outer buildings, but again, these are not guaranteed.

I think you will be happy no matter where you end up...good luck with your decision and happy planning!!

 

[3for Me]

As promised.....Here's my Ebay win that I am so excited about.....it arrived late Friday!!! I love it.

Lives4Disney

CAN YOU SAY JEALOUS??????

Congrats on your win! I hope it will have a place of honor.

 

[Maxie86]

Tinkeroo - thank you for responding to my post.

I admit I am still not sure what type of room to request so I am hoping if I give you and everyone else who has experieced the GF my priorities then maybe you can advise me. Truly the view is not so important. I guess I want to make sure I get the best possible room. I would like to be conveniently/centrally located to everything. I am not opposed to purchasing the concierge level (if that is best) but I am on the DDP and did not think we would use it. Please help, as you can see I am confused only because I want to make sure I get the best possible room.

[/I]

I would suggest a lodge tower room in any building. They are quite a bit bigger and you will love the extra room. They are by request only in Sugarloaf, but unless something changed you can reserve them in the other lodges. There is a little alcove with table and chairs, sofa, coffee table and a second TV. There are only a couple of them in each lodge, so you have to book early.

 

[DentalGirl]

We've had accessible rooms with rollin showers in Conch Key and Sugar Loaf. I know there is at least one with what used to be called lagoon view. One trip we were supposed to be in that room the first night and then MK view the rest but they ended up putting us in Conch Key for all nights which was very, very nice.

Janet2K was in an accessible room in RPC and I think it was rollin shower but I'm not positive.

The accessible bathrooms we've had at the GF are the best we've had anywhere. I know there are some newly remodeled ones at the Polynesian and we're looking forward to having one of those in May.

Thank you BCV 23!

 

[Tinkaroo]

Okay, I am getting really frustrated...

I have tried calling the CM in Private Dining 4 times now, with no response. I tried calling about a month ago, left a message with all my info., etc., and never heard back. I called again the week before last - same drill. I called last week, and her VM said she was out until Friday (this was Thursday). I left another message, and then called back today, too. Same thing - another message!

Does anyone have any hints on how to get in touch with this CM? In her VM, she asks for my contact info., including my e-mail address, so I would assume she has an e-mail address, too, although IPO will only give me her phone #. If anyone has an e-mail address for this woman, would you mind sending it my way?

I'm trying to arrange an intimate dinner for me and DH at the end of next month on the grounds somewhere, and I definitely don't think 30 days out is too early to begin planning something, particularly for this time of year. My experience with IPO thus far has been great, but Private Dining is leaving a lot to be desired....I shouldn't have to beg someone to spend $$!

I'd appreciate any help!!!

 

[tenbelow]

Mike, I'll be doing a photo shoot with my family in just a little over a month. I'm thinking with a lot of the colors in the lobby and on the Christmas tree being more mauves and dark sage greens that maybe the CM was right to suggest those colors. For our group, I was thinking of white/black (just from an ease perspective), and I could see how red might clash with the GF holiday decor. Just my two cents, though.

Did you have any problems booking? What time are you doing? Did they give any indications as to the locations they'd be shooting?

Tinkaroo I did not have any problems getting my requested time of noon as I called exactly 30 days out, of course YMMV.

If it is raining all shots are inside, if it is nice out they do a mix of indoor and outdoor shots. I'll post a link to a thread on this forum that has a mixture of photo shots - I would agree with the other poster who said that the lighter colors tend to blend in to the GF backrounds (see link below).

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1553537&page=5

DW and I are leaning towards white top, with either black pants or shorts...anyone else have sample pics of the GF photopass shoot? Light blue tops and black bottom may work as well, while I would think that navy blue top and black bottoms would be too dark...then there's red top and navy or black bottom, or

Since we'll be arriving at the GF 2 days prior to our shoot, the best bet will be to go to the 2nd floor photopass desk and I'm sure they will have plenty of samples to show how the different colors work with the "current" backdrops"...

27 days and counting...

 

[tenbelow]

for the GF Photoshot ... DH will be wearing a Navy blue Polo, Ds will be wearing a Light Blue Polo, DD will be wearing a Light Pink Shirt & me I will be wearing a Dark Rose shirt. everyone will be wearing Jeans

I saw some of the pictures with people wearing White shirts & jeans, and I felt like they looked a little washed out with all the white at the GF.
I think people wearing the dark Blue and black looked best, also found light pants did not work as well as Jeans or black pants.

what's everyone doing? I think the red and Jeans would look great BUT i don't think I could get my DH to wear red.

Who woulda thunk it - too many choices at Disney!

In the photos I've seen the lighter color bottoms did not work, but I have not seen any photos with black or blue jeans. We have matching red Mickey Polo tops that we had planned originally on wearing, but I am wondering if we would clash with each other or the victorian Christmas decorations at GF at the end of November.

Heck I don't think I've ever thought about matching my clothes to my surroundings in any photos.

I'll try to find some more samples photos and plan on visiting the GF photopass location prior to our scheduled shoot.

 

[krbq]

We checked out this morning after a week at Sago Key. Sugar Loaf is definitely open now (has had guests for the last 3 nights). This morning I noticed CM's walking around Sago Key with clipboards and earphones so I asked one of them when Sago was to be done. She said Sago was the only building that hadn't been done and wouldn't be started until the weekend after Thanksgiving. They plan to close the building for 6 weeks and re-open when it's finished. She said they had tried doing other buildings floor by floor but it created too much confusion.

After our rocky start at check-in, we had a great stay at the GF. Our room had seen some wear and tear and for some reason was lacking a robe and 2 of the big decorative pillows, but DH didn't notice at all and I quickly got over it. The room I got for my friend -- the birthday girl and her 2 nieces, ages 19 and 20 -- was in much better shape and that's really what mattered. They were absolutely delighted by the GF. "Overwhelmed" is the word they used repeatedly. I think the younger girls were afraid it might be too stuffy, but they quickly relaxed and especially liked Gasparilla Grill. They loved to get chicken fingers and pizza and be in the room every night in time for the Electrical Water Pageant and the fireworks at the MK (we had a MK view). One of the nieces had stayed at All Stars in June, but this was an entirely different Disney trip for her. The birthday girl was thrilled with the beauty and casual elegance of the hotel and I was especially pleased that she received a white chocolate Mickey with cookies and truffles from the hotel.

The trip was a great success and I don't think we could have chosen a better place to celebrate A's birthday. Next October we're celebrating DH's birthday at the GF but aren't leaving the room assignment to chance. He wants the Disney suite and that's what we've reserved. I can't believe we're gonna pay that much for a room . . .

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Im so glad you had a great trip krbq! There are some wonderful pics of the suites back in this thread. Channing stayed in one last year and it look wonderful.

 

[tidblgrrer]

People use routers if they want WiFi within their rooms through the above connection. There is WiFi in the lobby but with a separate $9.99/24 charge.

.

Great -- so do you think we could also use multiple laptops this way??? We tend to have more people wanting to upload pictures (3-4 digital cameras Why??? I can't explain, they just all want one and none are mine) in our room than we have waking hours to do so, so I was thinking of bringing an extra laptop and splitting the crowd as it were. As anyone done this?? They are going to think we are moving in!
Thanks

 

[Tinks]

Hi guys! We're back from our short weekend away. We stayed at the GF Friday the 26th to Sunday the 28th in room 4320. The room was remodeled and was right off the 3rd floor concierge check in area.

I wish I could say that I felt the love for the GF this trip but it was just okay. Check in CM was little in conversation and seemed annoyed with us. I won't say his name online but if you want to know pm me. The gal who did our boarding passes 24 hour ahead was really nice and friendly. The lounge was nice. New coffee machine. They did serve gray meat on Saturday. I had to .

Overall I just got an "eh" feeling this trip. If I choose to stay here again I would definately go with MK view and skip concierge all together.

FYI--Sugar Loaf opened on Friday the 26th. I peeked in the door but didn't go in. It looked really nice!

Also, I really truly do not care for the remodel. The pictures online are what you get and the color isn't better in person. The recliner-looking chair (which isn't a recliner, I realize) just doesn't go with the theme, IMO. Maybe that's what felt off. The new decor I missed the old bed spreads and period-looking furniture pieces.

Oh well, it's still a fabulous resort with a great location. I wish the CMs were friendlier, even though I wouldn't call them rude or anything.


Question: did the GF used to have lights on the tops of all the resort? Now the lights are just on Narcoosee's. I'm struggling to remember if they were even on the Main Building. Used to be very pretty at night.


Can I answer any questions???

 

[Lives4Disney]

Hi guys! We're back from our short weekend away. We stayed at the GF Friday the 26th to Sunday the 28th in room 4320. The room was remodeled and was right off the 3rd floor concierge check in area.

I wish I could say that I felt the love for the GF this trip but it was just okay. Check in CM was little in conversation and seemed annoyed with us. I won't say his name online but if you want to know pm me. The gal who did our boarding passes 24 hour ahead was really nice and friendly. The lounge was nice. New coffee machine. They did serve gray meat on Saturday. I had to .

Overall I just got an "eh" feeling this trip. If I choose to stay here again I would definately go with MK view and skip concierge all together.

FYI--Sugar Loaf opened on Friday the 26th. I peeked in the door but didn't go in. It looked really nice!

Also, I really truly do not care for the remodel. The pictures online are what you get and the color isn't better in person. The recliner-looking chair (which isn't a recliner, I realize) just doesn't go with the theme, IMO. Maybe that's what felt off. The new decor I missed the old bed spreads and period-looking furniture pieces.

Oh well, it's still a fabulous resort with a great location. I wish the CMs were friendlier, even though I wouldn't call them rude or anything.


Question: did the GF used to have lights on the tops of all the resort? Now the lights are just on Narcoosee's. I'm struggling to remember if they were even on the Main Building. Used to be very pretty at night.


Can I answer any questions???

Tinks! Welcome back. Sorry it was kind of eh this time. I know what you mean.....we've had those types of stays/vacations before. Not at the GF in RPC yet, though. Hopefully not ever, but I hear what you're saying. I am sorry the CMs didn't feel too friendly to ya this time. That can make a BIG difference in how the trip goes. Bummer about the new decor. I had requested Sago w/CRO but now of course I am having second thoughts. Not that I like the new decor but the updated TV Ipod dock etc that comes with it. You are right. The WHOLE top of the GF used to be lit up. Same with YC and BC and they have cut back a few yrs ago unfortunately. Kind of a shame for those of us that DO remember how it USED to be. Newbies wouldn't know any different. Well......do you have any pics of the room??? Was is a great room??? I have seen the one above on the 4th floor and thought it was terrific w/a lot of extra space.

KRPQ - thanks for the review! I am glad it improved after check in. The Walt Disney Suite is amazing. By the time you go, though, it will be very different due to rehabs, I bet.

Tidblgrrer - yes, that's why we use the router - well one reason. Several laptops can be used with it. AND we can take them to the lounge (if the service reaches from the room )

Happy day,

Lives4Disney

 

[princessesrule4]

Hi guys! We're back from our short weekend away. We stayed at the GF Friday the 26th to Sunday the 28th in room 4320. The room was remodeled and was right off the 3rd floor concierge check in area.

I wish I could say that I felt the love for the GF this trip but it was just okay. Check in CM was little in conversation and seemed annoyed with us. I won't say his name online but if you want to know pm me. The gal who did our boarding passes 24 hour ahead was really nice and friendly. The lounge was nice. New coffee machine. They did serve gray meat on Saturday. I had to .

Overall I just got an "eh" feeling this trip. If I choose to stay here again I would definately go with MK view and skip concierge all together.

FYI--Sugar Loaf opened on Friday the 26th. I peeked in the door but didn't go in. It looked really nice!

Also, I really truly do not care for the remodel. The pictures online are what you get and the color isn't better in person. The recliner-looking chair (which isn't a recliner, I realize) just doesn't go with the theme, IMO. Maybe that's what felt off. The new decor I missed the old bed spreads and period-looking furniture pieces.

Oh well, it's still a fabulous resort with a great location. I wish the CMs were friendlier, even though I wouldn't call them rude or anything.


Question: did the GF used to have lights on the tops of all the resort? Now the lights are just on Narcoosee's. I'm struggling to remember if they were even on the Main Building. Used to be very pretty at night.


Can I answer any questions???

Thanks for the report and sorry you weren't feeling it at the GF this trip! Didn't you get an upgrade or something? Trying to remember but can't remember if it was you who talked about a possible upgrade! Don't you love the new latte machine? How did the new lounge look in person?

 

[BamaTigger]

Does anyone have any pics of the rooms that have the MK view? Have they been remodeled yet???

Im so excited to be staying there for Xmas! Any pics of the building that has the MK view would be appreciated!

Oh, has anyone paid for a MK view room and they werent happy with the view of the castle???

 

[Lives4Disney]

Does anyone have any pics of the rooms that have the MK view? Have they been remodeled yet???

Im so excited to be staying there for Xmas! Any pics of the building that has the MK view would be appreciated!

Oh, has anyone paid for a MK view room and they werent happy with the view of the castle???

Hi! HockeyMom posted pics on pg 381 of her MK view room in Conch. The only building that has not been redone is Sago. Yes, I have heard of people not being thrilled with their views - tree blocking the view or not the view they hoped for. It is not "MK View" anymore, but "Theme Park View".....so it may not be a direct castle view. If you don't like the view you recieve just ask to be moved before you "move in".....

Lives4Disney

 

[BamaTigger]

Hi! HockeyMom posted pics on pg 381 of her MK view room in Conch. The only building that has not been redone is Sago. Yes, I have heard of people not being thrilled with their views - tree blocking the view or not the view they hoped for. It is not "MK View" anymore, but "Theme Park View".....so it may not be a direct castle view. If you don't like the view you recieve just ask to be moved before you "move in".....

Lives4Disney

Thanks! So , Conch is the only building that has the "park" view? I will be happy to have a view of the park! Tree or no tree! Last Feb, we had a view of the Poly and the Wedding Pavillion, and I have always wanted a Park view, so I wont be picky!! Im just thankful to get what I get!

 

[Tinks]

Yes, we were upgraded to a deluxe RPC room. (I had booked a standard one.)

Ummm, believe it or not, I did not take pictures. I was just very underwhelmed by the check in. He did not even mention the upgrade to us, just gave us the keys and said the room would be ready in 15 minutes, which was nice. We dropped off our stuff to head out to a park and when we came out of the room to go, he made a comment about the room "Lots of space, huh?" I took it as "you should say something to me about the deluxe room and how grateful you are" and it irked me. I smiled and said "Yes. It's very nice." and went on my way. As a side note, I certainly am less about the bells and whistles and more about the interaction. I prefer to make small talk and see people who enjoy their job and enjoy the guests. I would say he was having an off day, but I've interacted with him before on a prior trip. He has a very flat affect. (not a sparkling personality ) I'm sure other guests could easily get a "snobby" vibe from him, but I don't think he is. He's fine, just not welcoming and friendly and not talkative at all.

The room had a coatrack immediately on your left as you entered and it was sorta wider than a standard room. It had a garden tub. The decor didn't do it for me and there were already stains on the recliner-looking chair and the sofa. I was going to take pictures of that! We looked directly out the back of the Main Building so head on to the flower garden in front of the quiet pool. I had requested a monorail/beach pool/poly view. I wasn't sad about the view. It was pretty.

I still really like the GF. It's beautiful and a great resort for anyone: families, solos, business....you name it. I'll be back. I most likely won't pay for concierge again. I really liked the MK view room I had last trip in May. I think that at the GF the MK view room type is the one for me , although I'll still miss the old decor.


BTW, I did take tons pictures of the BC room we had the night before. I posted them on the BC thread. The CMs there were ALL so nice. You never had a chance to say "hi" first because they beat you to the punch. They asked how your day was going, can I check the weather for you.....almost too friendly! I wish I could transport them to the GF!

 

[Tinks]

Thanks! So , Conch is the only building that has the "park" view? I will be happy to have a view of the park! Tree or no tree! Last Feb, we had a view of the Poly and the Wedding Pavillion, and I have always wanted a Park view, so I wont be picky!! Im just thankful to get what I get!

Conch, Sago, Boca Chica, and Big Pine all have park views. The best are supposed to be in Conch and Sago. I stayed in a MK view room that was in Boca and it was great! The castle was a little to the left but you could see it plainly while sitting on the balcony. Heaven! I still scratch my head over how Big Pine could have MK views. I would hope for one of the other 3 lodges.