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

[steffali]

I booked CL in the SL through AAA. Will I still be able to make any requests,planning and ADR's through the Conceirge???? THis is the first time we are staying CL so I am a little confused. They told me the only difference from the SL to the RPC is the Bldgs. Does anyone know if this is true???? DOes anyone know what floor the WC accessible rooms are in the SL Bldg????
Any help is appreciated.

 

[TammiMcMan]

one question. what is a deluxe room? any experience? pictures?

Bigger square footage, but they only sleep 4 guests. Personally, I wouldn't pay extra for it, but that's just me. We travel with 5 and are always very comfortable in a standard room. Plus, we utilize the lounge and treat it as our living room, so extra space in the room is not really necessary for us. I have some floor layouts on my homepage if you wanted to take a look.

I booked CL in the SL through AAA. Will I still be able to make any requests,planning and ADR's through the Conceirge???? THis is the first time we are staying CL so I am a little confused. They told me the only difference from the SL to the RPC is the Bldgs. Does anyone know if this is true????

There is no amenity difference between the two. They're serviced by the same IPO team and will gladly handle any requests you have. The only difference you'll find discussed here, is ambiance. RPC is definite romance, while SL, I feel is more bed & breakfast.

 

[dsmom]

Hello all,
I am new here and have a Lodge Tower deluxe room for Christmas time reserved. Can anyone tell me where these rooms are and what they look like? Can you add concierge service to them? Thanks for any help!

 

[TammiMcMan]

I am new here and have a Lodge Tower deluxe room for Christmas time reserved. Can anyone tell me where these rooms are and what they look like?

These rooms are located in all the outer buildings, but they're simply called Lodge Tower. If you take a look at pictures of the GF, http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/gf100.jpg , they are pretty recognizable by the bow shaped design. Triplefigs stayed in one during a recent trip and I know has posted pics somewhere on this thread. Hopefully, she can point you right to them, so you don't have to search. Basically, they are slightly larger than a standard room, with a seating area. It's still just one room, but the seating area contains a real couch, coffee table, chair and additional television. I also have the room layout on my homepage if that helps. These rooms all have a garden view and most do come with a balcony.

Can you add concierge service to them?

No you cannot. Concierge is not available as an "add on" with any style room. You can however, book a lodge concierge room and request one of the 3 lodge tower rooms that are located in Sugar Loaf. These are available at no additional cost, beyond the already charged concierge rate. They are not guaranteed however and you won't know if your request is granted until you actually check in.

 

[Janet2k]

I’m still in Walt Disney World with my daughter but since we tore up our feet at Blizzard Beach yesterday (8-hours of fun sure takes a toll on your tootsies), we’re kicking back in our resort room for a few hours this morning.

I thought I would take advantage of my free time by sharing a couple of photos of the Glass Slipper floral arrangement that Disney and the French television crew had delivered to my daughter and I during our Grand Floridian stay. This floral arrangement was their way of thanking us for allowing them access to our room and its power outlets while they were filming a television interview on the third floor balcony that sat outside our turret room.

Photo # 1 (photo taken from my room of the TV crew)
Photo # 2 (photo taken from outside of 3rd floor balcony)
Photo # 3 (photo taken from outside of 3rd floor balcony)
Photo # 4 (photo taken from outside of 3rd floor balcony)
Photo # 5 (photo of Glass Slipper floral arrangement)
Photo # 6 (photo of Disney Florist gift card)
Photo # 7 (photo of actual glass slipper)

The arrangement that the Disney Florist had created was truly lovely. The slipper was approximately 5-inches long. It was made of glass and was quite weighty. The glass slipper sat atop a pillow of white carnations that smelled divine. ~Ah!~ The bottom of the floral pillow was skirted in the palest blue tulle that was dotted with silver sparkles (you can see this in photo # 5). The entire arrangement was stunning and simply took our breath away. What a magical thank you gift, ~sigh.~

So, if any of you are thinking about sending a special surprise to a loved one during an upcoming vacation, please consider the Glass Slipper floral arrangement. It will surely work its magic on your recipient.

 

[steffali]

There is no amenity difference between the two. They're serviced by the same IPO team and will gladly handle any requests you have. The only difference you'll find discussed here, is ambiance. RPC is definite romance, while SL, I feel is more bed & breakfast.

Well I guess I made the right choice then. There will be no time for romance

 

[irisbud]

BF's mother called yesterday, and he told her all about how we will be going to WDW in early Dec. There is a long pause on his end of the phone, then he says "Oh, okay." They talk for several more minutes. When he hangs up, he tells me that he will not be going to WDW with me now because his mother has decided that they will "convieniantly" (sp?) be celebrating the Holidays during this exact time frame. WHAT! They never do it then, usually it's more like early to mid January, and I have to send him there kicking and screaming because he dosen't like his family! Even worse is the fact that BF does not seem to care at all!

I pointed out to him that I have spent a lot of money on this trip already (I have paid in full), and that I really wanted it to be a special time for us, which is why we are doing CL. We travel A LOT together for work, and it will be nice to be in a nice place for once. It is also about the only possible time that we could get away. He told me to just go ahead and go alone, because he dosen't know that he will enjoy WDW anyway. He thinks it is like a big Six Flags and will just be "okay".

Anyway, now I have a major dilemma. The only other time we could go is between Christmas and New Years, which will be exponentially more expensive (I would for sure have to downgrade to at least LV) and more crowded (he hates to wait. Ever. For Anything.), or I can keep the reservation I currently have and take my Dad as a thank you for all of the great things he has always done for me. My Dad and I went together on my last trip to the GF and he loved it; we really had a great time, even though we foolishy planned nothing (over the fourth of July ). I think he would be over the moon with RPC!

So, what would you do?

TIA

 

[Lives4Disney]

BF's mother called yesterday, and he told her all about how we will be going to WDW in early Dec. There is a long pause on his end of the phone, then he says "Oh, okay." They talk for several more minutes. When he hangs up, he tells me that he will not be going to WDW with me now because his mother has decided that they will "convieniantly" (sp?) be celebrating the Holidays during this exact time frame. WHAT! They never do it then, usually it's more like early to mid January, and I have to send him there kicking and screaming because he dosen't like his family! Even worse is the fact that BF does not seem to care at all!

I pointed out to him that I have spent a lot of money on this trip already (I have paid in full), and that I really wanted it to be a special time for us, which is why we are doing CL. We travel A LOT together for work, and it will be nice to be in a nice place for once. It is also about the only possible time that we could get away. He told me to just go ahead and go alone, because he dosen't know that he will enjoy WDW anyway. He thinks it is like a big Six Flags and will just be "okay".

Anyway, now I have a major dilemma. The only other time we could go is between Christmas and New Years, which will be exponentially more expensive (I would for sure have to downgrade to at least LV) and more crowded (he hates to wait. Ever. For Anything.), or I can keep the reservation I currently have and take my Dad as a thank you for all of the great things he has always done for me. My Dad and I went together on my last trip to the GF and he loved it; we really had a great time, even though we foolishy planned nothing (over the fourth of July ). I think he would be over the moon with RPC!

So, what would you do?

TIA

Amy - I have no wise words for ya...sorry. I just had to laugh because I have been married to a GREAT guy for 18 yrs (next month) and I am suffering now because my MIL is staying with us..... SUFFERING! It happens every summer... It is so strange how he changes when she's around. Men - I guess I should say sons and their relationships with their moms never change. My DH is a 45 yr old momma's boy when she is around. I hate it. Three more days.....I can make it......

I hope it works out for you and he sees the light. If not, have a great time with your dad.

Lives4Disney

 

[steffali]

Sorry to hear that your plans are ruined. You should make the best of it anb take your DAD. It sounds like he would be very happy and the 2 of you would have a good time rather than go during the holidays with your BF when it will be crowded and he will be miserable and make you miserable. Enjoy it when ever you decide to go

 

[Janet2k]

A few weeks ago I mentioned that my daughter had received a special surprise in our Grand Floridian resort room one evening. I’m sorry that I haven’t had a chance to post photos of this surprise until now. Since my daughter is sound asleep (we’re still here in WDW), I took the liberty of uploading a few photos into a new on-line photo album. I won’t have a chance to add captions to those photos until after our vacation has ended, but for now I think the old adage will hold true – a picture is worth a thousand words. Here is the link to my photo album: click here. (Note: Since the photos were taken on different days, some items may be missing from a few of the photos.)

My daughter’s surprise treat was a white chocolate Tinker Bell. Tinker Bell was edged in gold dust and in her hands she held a red rose. She stood atop a silver platter and was surrounded by delicious cookies, delicate pastillage flowers, yummy chocolate-covered strawberries, and scrumptious hand-rolled truffles. Behind Tinker Belle stood a screen of spun-sugar that was coated with a scene of the heavens: stars, planets, and moons. The entire presentation was breathtaking. We were in awe as we viewed it.

Since this item was a gift, I apologize that I do not know how to order it. My guess is that it was created by the Grand Floridian’s amazing bakery staff. If that is true, then perhaps Private Dining can help you order this item (Private Dining acts as the liaison to the resort’s bakery).

In my humble opinion, the Tinker Bell treat is something that is sure to set the heart of its recipient aflutter. I know that it made my daughter’s heart sing on the night that she received it. It was truly a ~magical~ gift.

 

[#1hockeymom]

I was lucky enough to view this beautiful creation in person. Pictures do not do it justice. It is truly a piece of art.

 

[scanne]

BF's mother called yesterday, and he told her all about how we will be going to WDW in early Dec. There is a long pause on his end of the phone, then he says "Oh, okay." They talk for several more minutes. When he hangs up, he tells me that he will not be going to WDW with me now because his mother has decided that they will "convieniantly" (sp?) be celebrating the Holidays during this exact time frame. WHAT! They never do it then, usually it's more like early to mid January, and I have to send him there kicking and screaming because he dosen't like his family! Even worse is the fact that BF does not seem to care at all!

OK, if I'm delving too far into your personal life, I sincerely apologize.

BUT, if your BF has known about this trip and within a 10 minute phone call with his mother decides to bail on you, maybe you should re-think your commitment to him. I would definitely sit down with him and discuss your feelings of hurt over the situation. I mean, you have put your hard earned money into this trip - not to mention your feelings for your BF - and now he totally backs out on you? I do realize the trip is several months away, but still, that is no excuse for him to back out! I got so upset for you reading your post and I think the boy needs a reality check. You sound like a caring girlfriend who has gone out of her way to make a truly memorable and romantic trip for him, and then he does this? Not fair to you.

I would sit down and talk to him about this and explain how much the trip meant to you - and don't bring up the financial part of it, either. He has to understand your feelings about this. And you need to know where he stands. It sounds like you've been together for a long time. If you see marriage to this guy in your future, he needs to put you 1st and foremost.

Again, if I have offended you in any way, I apologize. I went through this with my DH and had to point out that if he wanted me in his life, I would have to be priority over his mother/family. I just think that's how a relationship should be.

Good luck and I hope you work things out they way you want them to be!

 

[traci]

Iris, take your daddy and have fun!!
As for that boyfriend, he doesn't like Disney World?? That it's like Six Flags?? Are you sure this guy is your soulmate (wink!)?

 

[glass slipper girl]

Wow, Janet! That Tinkerbell is beautiful! A treat fit for a princess for sure. Your daughter is one lucky young lady. Thanks for sharing the pictures.

Irisbud, sorry to hear your boyfriend is backing out on your trip. What a disappointment. I hope you are able to work something out. If not, taking your Dad sounds like a great idea too. If for some reason you decide to go Christmas week, I would highly recommend a subscription to Tour Guide Mike (look at the banner on the theme parks board for a $3 discount). We've been twice over Christmas week and with his advice, we didn't wait for more than 15 minutes for anything. I still prefer going when it's less crowded but there was an extra dose of magic there for the holidays. Of course you are right that the price tag makes it a bit harder to swallow! But if you do decide to go that route, you can avoid the long lines with TGM's advice.

 

[hmp2z]

BF's mother called yesterday, and he told her all about how we will be going to WDW in early Dec. There is a long pause on his end of the phone, then he says "Oh, okay."

Oh my gosh! I would light a fire under that BF. Whether or not he thinks WDW is like 6 Flags has nothing to do with the issue. So what? It's an important trip to you; you've already paid thousands of dollars for a beautiful room. That alone should make him go.

And if he's already agreed to go, then he needs to call his mother back & tell her that sorry, he's already made a commitment during that time period.

When you get married, you marry not only your DH but also his family. They might live far away, but you will still need to know that you are your DH's #1 priority. If his mom is his #1 priority, then I personally wouldn't be happy in a relationship like that. But then again, I'm lucky enough to have a DH who puts me first AND a set of in-laws that most people would kill for We both love being around my MIL & FIL; they are so much fun & such nice people. They would absolutely reschedule holidays if they heard that we'd made other plans for a certain time period. Just keep in mind that, if you're serious about this BF, this may be a battle you will fight time & time again, and do you really want to always be on the losing end? Precedent is very important.

And, BTW, it sounds like your dad is a very sweet guy who would love a trip to GF RPC as well as a visit to V&A's (I saw your other post on the dining board). You will have a great time there; we had our wedding reception there, and not one family member was made uncomfortable, even though my parents are both country folk.

Cheers!
Heather W

 

[lynr]

BF's mother called yesterday, and he told her all about how we will be going to WDW in early Dec. There is a long pause on his end of the phone, then he says "Oh, okay." They talk for several more minutes. When he hangs up, he tells me that he will not be going to WDW with me now because his mother has decided that they will "convieniantly" (sp?) be celebrating the Holidays during this exact time frame. WHAT! They never do it then, usually it's more like early to mid January, and I have to send him there kicking and screaming because he dosen't like his family! Even worse is the fact that BF does not seem to care at all!

I pointed out to him that I have spent a lot of money on this trip already (I have paid in full), and that I really wanted it to be a special time for us, which is why we are doing CL. We travel A LOT together for work, and it will be nice to be in a nice place for once. It is also about the only possible time that we could get away. He told me to just go ahead and go alone, because he dosen't know that he will enjoy WDW anyway. He thinks it is like a big Six Flags and will just be "okay".

Anyway, now I have a major dilemma. The only other time we could go is between Christmas and New Years, which will be exponentially more expensive (I would for sure have to downgrade to at least LV) and more crowded (he hates to wait. Ever. For Anything.), or I can keep the reservation I currently have and take my Dad as a thank you for all of the great things he has always done for me. My Dad and I went together on my last trip to the GF and he loved it; we really had a great time, even though we foolishy planned nothing (over the fourth of July ). I think he would be over the moon with RPC!

So, what would you do?TIA

Amy:

I had a MIL who constantly had to be the center of attention and was VERY nasty. She knew just the right buttons to push to make my DH feel guility and start fights. She also managed to find a way to try and ruin, Wedding Shower, Baby Showers and vacation's for the last 23 years.

Sometimes it worked but when it came to vacations I put my foot down and my DH went along with me. He never came right out and told his mother that I came first but we always went on our vacations whether she liked it or not. My MIL passed away this May so this nightmare for me is over but it was a bruital 23 years.

I would sit down and explain your feelings to your BF and try to work it out. Once his mother gets her way this could be a sign of things to come and it needs to be dealt with now.

Here is a big group hug If things don't work out take your Dad and have a great time.

Lyn

 

[thumpersfriend]

Hi everyone, I just booked the GF MK view for our family, 2 rooms. We have never stayed there and chose it for the pool areas. My granddaughter who will be 4 has autism and when I stayed at the Poly last year I remember how terribly crowded the pool area was, standing room only. She loves to be in the water and I have a feeling that will be the major part of our trip, lol. Anyway I am so excited I booked the MK view and it will be a surprise to everyone. Is the MK view extra special? I didn't know what building to request and if you could help me I would appreciate it. Also, what other things should we not miss at this resort? How is Gaspirillas for a light meal, and the other cafe? So many questions, but I am so excited! We will be there April 15-21. How is the ladybug release?

 

[scanne]

thumpersfriend,

The MK view category is new for 2007 so I think it will mean you will have a guaranteed view of the castle! I would request Conch Key or Sago Cay. We have stayed in Sago with a view of the castle and it was great. I have heard that the views in Boca Chica that are not obstructed by trees have truly amazing views of the castle, Space Mountain and the entire lagoon area. I would think that since this view is now guaranteed, you will have an amazing view!!!

The last time I stayed at the GF was in 2001 and I was 8 weeks pregnant, so my memories of all food at that time is NOT good. However, we did enjopy Gasparilla's on our honeymoon in 2000 and plan on dining there at least once or twice when we're there next month.

For an added extra touch, you could order something special from the amazing GF bakery to be in your rooms after you check in. They have all sorts of things from cakes to chocolate covered strawberries to a white chocolate Cinderella slipper.

Hope this helps. Enjoy planning your trip!

 

[Docsknotinn]

Here is the IPO email address. <WDWGFPlanning@disney.com> Hope that's what you're asking about!!??

Yes thank you that worked fine!

 

[heatherlynn444]

Hi everyone, I just booked the GF MK view for our family, 2 rooms. We have never stayed there and chose it for the pool areas. My granddaughter who will be 4 has autism and when I stayed at the Poly last year I remember how terribly crowded the pool area was, standing room only. She loves to be in the water and I have a feeling that will be the major part of our trip, lol. Anyway I am so excited I booked the MK view and it will be a surprise to everyone. Is the MK view extra special? I didn't know what building to request and if you could help me I would appreciate it. Also, what other things should we not miss at this resort? How is Gaspirillas for a light meal, and the other cafe? So many questions, but I am so excited! We will be there April 15-21. How is the ladybug release?

the GF cafe is wonderful! it is one of my fav. Disney restaurants! you will love the MK view! happy planning!