The *New* Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Frequently Asked Questions (FEB2004)
- Thread starter CaliforniaDreaming
- Start date
- Status
We have enjoyed tea at the GF Garden View Lounge twice now, once in Sept. 03 and once this past March. We love it and it has become a favorite thing to do. The FAQ states that reservations are not accepted for tea. Both times we have gone, we have been able to make Priority Seatings. Is this no longer the case? Thanks! We do sooo love the tea!! 
Minnie&Nana
Dreams do come true!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2004
- Messages
- 15,831
I've just returned from the GF (incredible stay, incredible room and view)..sigh... I did place an advance order with Private Dining and it was handled perfectly.
As to the Mickey Bombe, there is also a Mickey Dome which looks much like the Bombe only the inside is a chocolate cake/mouse - difficult to describe, but it was not plain cake - spongy with a mouse-like taste. The Dog Bones were okay but nothing to write home about. Neither came on a white Chocolate plate, but on a plain white plate with the Dalamation outlines and Mickey on the Dome. Both were still $14 even though it was not a choc plate -which I think was a tad bit high as they were not all that special.
Otherwise, all was nearly perfect. Beautiful room (8345) , location in Boca Chica (I prefer the Floral Decor), end room with 2 balconies. Had to request a room change as soon as I stepped in to the first room as it was exactly waht I told the check-in CM I did not want - a dormer. When I called the front desk from the first room the CM could not have been nicer or more helpful. She did not make me feel uncomfortable for requesting a change, but the exact opposite by reassuring me that it was most important to them that I have the room I would like best if it was available. She came to us with new room card keys and met us at the room. Standing on the balcony (which I never wanted to leave) she sincerely asked if this room was alright - I told her it was perfect in every way.
For anyone who has booked a standard room there are a few standard fooms that have views of the Lagoon, MK Railraod Station, Space Mountain, the Cont Resort and the monorail gliding by in the distance. Fireworks can be seen nearly perfectly. This room on our floor was an end room # 8339, Boca Chica - and I would happily stay there anytime. These rooms are on the far end of the Lodge and best views - this was 3rd fl so do not know if 2nd floor view would be as good or if 4th fl would then be a Lagoon View since it is higher. The only thing that could not be seen was the Castle . Although I know that is important to lots of people this is the best view without the Castle - in my opinion. I met the people in that room, showed them my room and was able to see theirs.
We heard from management that about 80-85 rooms were damaged from the hurricanes, some in the standard Concierge Lodge. Guests had to be moved around after the last hurricane.
As for the warmth or lack of from CM's - we did not stay in RPC and actually have no desire to do so. I loved the location of my room, enjoy doing all the planning myself and like the privacy of being away from the main building as well as the location of the room I had this time. I would not want to give up the chance of that room location (or one like it) to stay in the main Lodge. Every Front Desk Cm was delightful - except for the one we had at check-in and I think he was kind of confused. He clearly did not have much knowledge of room locations and was not especially pleasant to work with. He was not unpleasant, but I knew from the start I might have to change rooms and simply smiled at him and let the process go... they seem to try even harder at GF to find a good room when you call from a room unhappy with the room or location etc, so I was not worried.
The Poly has always been my favorite, but I cannot imagine staying anywhere other than the GF for future visits. Unless I am on a really tight budget and it's an unexpected fast trip...then I'll go to a moderate rather than be across from the GF!
I've read how much people like the BC and YC CM's, but I found them to be rather reserved and definitely not helpful. When we had to change rooms at the BC they seemed quite put out.
Oh, we also recieved some sweet touches from CM's at GF. This was my 35th trip to Disney, having always stayed at a Disney resort, my first at the GF (never thought I would like it!!). My friend, who lives in FL, picked me up at the airport and we celebrated her birthday and my 35th visit.
After our room change I called the front desk and spoke with a supervisor to compliment the CM who helped us with the change. I felt she went out of her way and said so. Vicky, the FD supervisor told me they have a few ways to reward CM's and how she would take care of this one - which sounded good.
The next day when we returned to the room there was a gift basket of goodies wishing me a happy 35th stay etc, from Vicky!The next morning I dropped off a personal note thanking her. That afternoon we returned to a Minnie photo for each of us, signed sweetly from Minnie of course!
I was quite skeptical about this resort and hesitated staying there...and after reading several complaints was not sure what to expect. It was perfect..and although my vacation was cut short to 3 nights due to the hurricanes, I felt I'd been away a good week - thanks to the relaxing environment of the GF, the excellent service and gracious CM's.
Now...when, oh, when can I return???? I might have to plan something even though the dates might change just so I'll have a visit to look forward to come winter!
Thanks to all, esp Tammi, for your input before my visit. I like to know as much as possible before staying at a resort and do a lot of research - this board was extremely helpful. Hope I can help others, esp since I've stayed at almost every Resort multiple times;o) GF will be the resort of choice from now on
)
Christine
sad to be back, but ready to begin planning again
P.S. Afternoon Tea - I noticed that PS was accepted for Afternoon Tea while we were there last week.
As to the Mickey Bombe, there is also a Mickey Dome which looks much like the Bombe only the inside is a chocolate cake/mouse - difficult to describe, but it was not plain cake - spongy with a mouse-like taste. The Dog Bones were okay but nothing to write home about. Neither came on a white Chocolate plate, but on a plain white plate with the Dalamation outlines and Mickey on the Dome. Both were still $14 even though it was not a choc plate -which I think was a tad bit high as they were not all that special.
Otherwise, all was nearly perfect. Beautiful room (8345) , location in Boca Chica (I prefer the Floral Decor), end room with 2 balconies. Had to request a room change as soon as I stepped in to the first room as it was exactly waht I told the check-in CM I did not want - a dormer. When I called the front desk from the first room the CM could not have been nicer or more helpful. She did not make me feel uncomfortable for requesting a change, but the exact opposite by reassuring me that it was most important to them that I have the room I would like best if it was available. She came to us with new room card keys and met us at the room. Standing on the balcony (which I never wanted to leave) she sincerely asked if this room was alright - I told her it was perfect in every way.
For anyone who has booked a standard room there are a few standard fooms that have views of the Lagoon, MK Railraod Station, Space Mountain, the Cont Resort and the monorail gliding by in the distance. Fireworks can be seen nearly perfectly. This room on our floor was an end room # 8339, Boca Chica - and I would happily stay there anytime. These rooms are on the far end of the Lodge and best views - this was 3rd fl so do not know if 2nd floor view would be as good or if 4th fl would then be a Lagoon View since it is higher. The only thing that could not be seen was the Castle . Although I know that is important to lots of people this is the best view without the Castle - in my opinion. I met the people in that room, showed them my room and was able to see theirs.
We heard from management that about 80-85 rooms were damaged from the hurricanes, some in the standard Concierge Lodge. Guests had to be moved around after the last hurricane.
As for the warmth or lack of from CM's - we did not stay in RPC and actually have no desire to do so. I loved the location of my room, enjoy doing all the planning myself and like the privacy of being away from the main building as well as the location of the room I had this time. I would not want to give up the chance of that room location (or one like it) to stay in the main Lodge. Every Front Desk Cm was delightful - except for the one we had at check-in and I think he was kind of confused. He clearly did not have much knowledge of room locations and was not especially pleasant to work with. He was not unpleasant, but I knew from the start I might have to change rooms and simply smiled at him and let the process go... they seem to try even harder at GF to find a good room when you call from a room unhappy with the room or location etc, so I was not worried.
The Poly has always been my favorite, but I cannot imagine staying anywhere other than the GF for future visits. Unless I am on a really tight budget and it's an unexpected fast trip...then I'll go to a moderate rather than be across from the GF!
I've read how much people like the BC and YC CM's, but I found them to be rather reserved and definitely not helpful. When we had to change rooms at the BC they seemed quite put out.
Oh, we also recieved some sweet touches from CM's at GF. This was my 35th trip to Disney, having always stayed at a Disney resort, my first at the GF (never thought I would like it!!). My friend, who lives in FL, picked me up at the airport and we celebrated her birthday and my 35th visit.
After our room change I called the front desk and spoke with a supervisor to compliment the CM who helped us with the change. I felt she went out of her way and said so. Vicky, the FD supervisor told me they have a few ways to reward CM's and how she would take care of this one - which sounded good.
The next day when we returned to the room there was a gift basket of goodies wishing me a happy 35th stay etc, from Vicky!The next morning I dropped off a personal note thanking her. That afternoon we returned to a Minnie photo for each of us, signed sweetly from Minnie of course!
I was quite skeptical about this resort and hesitated staying there...and after reading several complaints was not sure what to expect. It was perfect..and although my vacation was cut short to 3 nights due to the hurricanes, I felt I'd been away a good week - thanks to the relaxing environment of the GF, the excellent service and gracious CM's.
Now...when, oh, when can I return???? I might have to plan something even though the dates might change just so I'll have a visit to look forward to come winter!
Thanks to all, esp Tammi, for your input before my visit. I like to know as much as possible before staying at a resort and do a lot of research - this board was extremely helpful. Hope I can help others, esp since I've stayed at almost every Resort multiple times;o) GF will be the resort of choice from now on
)Christine
sad to be back, but ready to begin planning again
P.S. Afternoon Tea - I noticed that PS was accepted for Afternoon Tea while we were there last week.
DisneyNotes
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Sep 19, 2004
- Messages
- 610
As if I wasn't excited enough about the GF! That post was just lovely and I think the next 37 days will never pass. I felt myself sitting in the lobby and watching the activity as I read your descriptions. I've had wonderful experiences with CMs there, too. Each time we go to WDW, we stay in the GF for most of the stay and then try one new hotel for a couple of nights. Nothing's come close to GF. Thanks for the lovely visions floating in my head!
As for room views? Haven't seen a bad one, yet. Everything is beautiful there.
As for room views? Haven't seen a bad one, yet. Everything is beautiful there.
goin2disneyagain
<font color=FF00CC>AKL- A WILD place to visit!<br>
- Joined
- Oct 13, 2003
- Messages
- 6,106
I would like to stay at GF some time. My goal is to stay at all the WDW resorts. Is it snobby? Nothing personal to anyone that enjoys the resort, I am just curious as to what I should expect.
Welcome back Christine!
Glad to hear you loved the GF after all! We're going in Jan for the 1st time. I too am trying to figure out what bulding, I was thinking Big Pine Key for it's proximity to the pools and main building but a great view would cool! We have 2 DD's 2 1/2 & turning 5 on our trip, I sure hope they could something special for her! Tell us more!
Lisa
Glad to hear you loved the GF after all! We're going in Jan for the 1st time. I too am trying to figure out what bulding, I was thinking Big Pine Key for it's proximity to the pools and main building but a great view would cool! We have 2 DD's 2 1/2 & turning 5 on our trip, I sure hope they could something special for her! Tell us more!
Lisa
DisneyNotes
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Sep 19, 2004
- Messages
- 610
I feel very comfortable @ GF. You shouldn't worry about more troublesome and snobby people there than anywhere else. It seems more subdued and relaxing IMO. During the holidays, many people that aren't staying in GF stop in to take pictures and they are sometimes dressed up for the occasion. They must use them for Christmas cards. I like to try other resorts, too. This one is just extra special. Give GF a try. You never know!
goin2disneyagain
<font color=FF00CC>AKL- A WILD place to visit!<br>
- Joined
- Oct 13, 2003
- Messages
- 6,106
Thanks!!
Minnie&Nana
Dreams do come true!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2004
- Messages
- 15,831
goin2disneyagain,
I wondered about the stuffiness at the GF as well...but did not find that at all for the most part. At any Resort there will be a few reserved CM's, but I found GF CM's to be quite gracious. There were lots of little ones there and the character breakfast/dinner at 1900 Park Fare looked delightful! I think they go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. Sure they deal often with celebs and thsoe for whom cost is irrellevant, but I think they try to give every guest the same quality of service.
Wampy2 ~ Thanks for thw welcome back!!
Boca Chica is not the closest to the theme pool, but the main pool is right in front of the Lodge. Pine Key (also has the smoking rooms) is very close to both. Have you looked at the map? I just posted the link somewhere on this board! If you don't have it let me know and I'll post it again.
Do you think it will be warm enough to swim in January? When I was there in Jan and Feb it was chilly!!! Take warm jackets and pants - we did not wear shorts at all in Jan or Feb!
And shoot, no photos!! I have not yet learned how to use a digital camera and forgot to take another camera - DUH!! My friend took a few photos, but none of the room. I'll do better next time!!! I am sooo excited for you!!
I wondered about the stuffiness at the GF as well...but did not find that at all for the most part. At any Resort there will be a few reserved CM's, but I found GF CM's to be quite gracious. There were lots of little ones there and the character breakfast/dinner at 1900 Park Fare looked delightful! I think they go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. Sure they deal often with celebs and thsoe for whom cost is irrellevant, but I think they try to give every guest the same quality of service.
Wampy2 ~ Thanks for thw welcome back!!
Boca Chica is not the closest to the theme pool, but the main pool is right in front of the Lodge. Pine Key (also has the smoking rooms) is very close to both. Have you looked at the map? I just posted the link somewhere on this board! If you don't have it let me know and I'll post it again.
Do you think it will be warm enough to swim in January? When I was there in Jan and Feb it was chilly!!! Take warm jackets and pants - we did not wear shorts at all in Jan or Feb!
And shoot, no photos!! I have not yet learned how to use a digital camera and forgot to take another camera - DUH!! My friend took a few photos, but none of the room. I'll do better next time!!! I am sooo excited for you!!
QJ411
O'hana means family...
- Joined
- Jul 20, 2002
- Messages
- 1,726
Hi everyone,
One of our fellow DIS'ers had a terrible experience at GF conceirge during their honeymoon
Here's the thread
I'm getting pretty nervous about GF/SL, the OP was quite upset and understanably so. I'm nervous b/c even though we're only staying for 2 nghts at SL, I hope the CMs are nicer than what the OP said they were.
Perhaps you can shoot over to that thread and offer some advise.
I truly hope GF/SL isn't really that bad... like many of you already know, this will be our first GF/SL experience and like everyone else, we do hope its a magical one!
One of our fellow DIS'ers had a terrible experience at GF conceirge during their honeymoon
Here's the thread
I'm getting pretty nervous about GF/SL, the OP was quite upset and understanably so. I'm nervous b/c even though we're only staying for 2 nghts at SL, I hope the CMs are nicer than what the OP said they were.
Perhaps you can shoot over to that thread and offer some advise.
I truly hope GF/SL isn't really that bad...
like many of you already know, this will be our first GF/SL experience and like everyone else, we do hope its a magical one!I will be staying at the GF for a few nights very soon. I am very much looking forward to my stay there. Initially, we were going to spend all two weeks of our vacation at the BoardWalk Villas (our DVC home resort), but as I continued to plan our vacation, something felt like it was missing. I finally figured out what that was it was a stay at the GF. And so I booked us a few nights there. Now things finally feel right.
I promise to share photos of my room upon my return. I also will write a trip report to share my experiences with both my GF stay and with the dessert party that my family is hosting at the GFs marina. I have no doubts at all that our vacation will be anything less than magical. I cant wait for it to begin.
I promise to share photos of my room upon my return. I also will write a trip report to share my experiences with both my GF stay and with the dessert party that my family is hosting at the GFs marina. I have no doubts at all that our vacation will be anything less than magical. I cant wait for it to begin.
TammiMcMan
Ohana
- Joined
- Jun 10, 2002
- Messages
- 6,308
Queenie & Janet,
Wishing you lots of magic for your upcoming GF trip. I hope you have a wonderful time.
Congratulations on your anniversary Janet. I'm sure that your ceremony and party are going to be just perfect.
Tammi
Wishing you lots of magic for your upcoming GF trip. I hope you have a wonderful time.
Congratulations on your anniversary Janet. I'm sure that your ceremony and party are going to be just perfect.
Tammi
QJ411
O'hana means family...
- Joined
- Jul 20, 2002
- Messages
- 1,726
Thanks Tammi!
We're not headed to GF just yet...SOON, very SOON! We're leaving Saturday for MNSSHP, this time we'll stay at POR and see how it is. We're still pretty excited, it's not GF, but POR still looks very lovely.We can't wait for our Dec. trip as well, then we'll be at GF/SL! Woo Hoo!!!
We'll be back on Monday night, I'll try to post a report and some photos for everyone! Thanks!!!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JANET!!!!
Can't wait to check out the photos!I have a reservation for 1 bdrm suite code BN. I see that these are located in several buildings. Which building should I request to increase my chances of a MK view? It doesn't have to be dead center castle view, but I'd like to be able look in that direction & possibly see the top of the castle & fireworks.
Thanks, guys!
Thanks, guys!
Minnie&Nana
Dreams do come true!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2004
- Messages
- 15,831
In Boca Chica there are some nice views from that building...I know there are suites on the 5th fl. Why not call the GF and ask? I did and they were terrific!
Just had to cancel my Dec trip for mousefest, but a friend and i decided we'll go next December and stay at the GF again!!! YEAH!!!
When are you going??
ps what's a BN code?
Just had to cancel my Dec trip for mousefest, but a friend and i decided we'll go next December and stay at the GF again!!! YEAH!!!
When are you going??
ps what's a BN code?
BaciBecky - CRO had put a code in our reservation for our suite. If you look at the first post on this thread it gives the description of the suites, their locations and even prices (for 2004) by that code. CRO will give you the code if you ask for it. If you are using a TA, just request your TA to ask CRO for it.
Thanks for the suggestion - I'll try calling them.
Thanks for the suggestion - I'll try calling them.
Minnie&Nana
Dreams do come true!
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2004
- Messages
- 15,831
Thank you!!!
disneyw/kids
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Jul 17, 2004
- Messages
- 497
does anyone have regular room photos they are willing to share. thanks
TammiMcMan
Ohana
- Joined
- Jun 10, 2002
- Messages
- 6,308
- Status
-
Is Walt Disney World Focusing Too Heavily on the Magic Kingdom?
-
New Disney Springs Shaken & Stirred Cocktail Class Dates
-
Looking for Ways to Experience 'Elio' at Disney Parks? We've Got Some + NEW Merch!
-
Why is There a Giant Dinosaur at Disney's Hollywood Studios?
-
The Must-Have Colorful Soft-Serve at Universal Volcano Bay
-
What You NEED to Know When Bringing Young Children to Epic Universe
-
Disney Summer Series: 5 Ways to Avoid Cranky Kids
Save Up to 30% on Rooms at Walt Disney World!
Save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when you stay 5 consecutive nights or longer in late summer and early fall. Plus, enjoy other savings for shorter stays.This offer is valid for stays most nights from August 1 to October 11, 2025.
CLICK HERE
