The **NEW** Grand Floridian FAQ!(MAY 2011)

[k&a&c'smom]

JoBird - lol about the dog! Good question regarding all IPOs, I hope someone has an answer. We haven't booked CL this year, so I have no current experience.

We've never stayed at the GF and are thinking of booking there the week before Christmas to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary.

Before I book, I'm torn if we should splurge for the lagoon view. We would be booking for 5 nights with the AP code and it will come out to about $300 more than the GV. I plan on requesting a king bed and do not want a first floor room.

One more question- does anyone recommend Citricos and what did they like there?

Thanks so much for the advice!

Welcome! What a lovely anniversary trip, the GF is beautiful during the holidays - one of our favorite times to visit.

For us, the lagoon view is not worth the upgrade cost. It is a nice view of the lagoon, and probably the Wedding Pavilion and Poly, but the garden view rooms at the GF are so pretty, it doesn't seem worth an extra $50/night, or whatever, to look at the water.

**I just remembered, they are doing some construction in the area of the Wedding Pavilion, so I would definitely suggest avoiding the lagoon view for a few months, if you prefer not to see it from your balcony. There are some lagoon views that do not face the WP, but quite a few that do.

Love Citricos, the food and service are excellent. I know the menu has changed a bit since we last ate there, but we've tried the cheese plate, the braised short rib, the Berkshire pork two ways, lemon cheesecake and the tropical fruit creme brulee. All were delicious!

Hi,

We have a stay at the GF outer building club level in 10 days time, so I can now check in online. Is there any advantage to doing this or would I be better checking in at the resort?

Thanks

Welcome!

There's really no reason to use online check in if you are staying club level - the check in process is personalized. However, I don't think it hurts anything to do so, if you like doing it. Probably your best bet is to email IPO, and see if that policy has changed any in recent months.

 

[followthatmouse]

Hey, all.

We are back from two wonderful months in the United States. For three weeks we were spoiled rotten by the CMs at RPC. Yes, the parks were hot and crowded. But, who cares? We had a truly magnificent time. We had such a fine time that we booked for December 2012! Christmas at GF, here we come!

 

[KCmike]

 

[followthatmouse]

Ooh, thank you, KCMike.

Better hurry or the boat will go without us.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Hey, all.

We are back from two wonderful months in the United States. For three weeks we were spoiled rotten by the CMs at RPC. Yes, the parks were hot and crowded. But, who cares? We had a truly magnificent time. We had such a fine time that we booked for December 2012! Christmas at GF, here we come!

Two months, what a great vacation. I'd love to have three weeks in RPC, I'll bet you were spoiled.

I'm glad your vacation was magical, even with the heat.

Ooh, thank you, KCMike.

Better hurry or the boat will go without us.

LOL - I hate it when you just miss the launch, don't you?

**I wanted to let my DIS friends know that we are having router issues, and may be without internet the rest of the week. If I'm not online, don't worry, I'll be back as soon as we have a new router.

 

[ZacharyW]

Hi everyone. I'm new to this board, though I've been lurking for a few days.

I live in Australia with my wife and our 14 month old son. We've lived here about 16 months, and our son was born here. We're Americans and travel back to the U.S. once or twice a year. This year, we're celebrating my birthday at Disneyworld, and we're all very excited. I had only been twice before I got married, but since being married, we've been 3 times.

The first time my wife and I went, we stayed at PO-FQ. The second time, we stayed at The Swan. The third, we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. This time, we're making a big deal of it all and staying at the GF on the RPC level. Our room type is "Deluxe - King." I guess my questions relate to what we should expect there. I'll toss around a few specific questions, but if you know something that might benefit us, please tell me.

We'll have in-laws with us too, so our "party size" is about 6 people, but will vary as family members living in the Orlando region come to see us... but this won't affect our stay at the GF.

When I booked the trip, I was told by the person I spoke with to call 10 days prior to leaving to request one of two rooms... either a "rectangular" or "octagonal" room. Does anyone have input on what those mean as far as view is concerned?

We've been around the world a few times and stayed on concierge levels before. I'm interested in seeing the Disney take on concierge treatment. Are the "snacks" offered throughout the day substantial? I'm thinking primarily of our son (who will be 15 months old and probably walking, since he's RIGHT.ON.THE.VERGE of walking now) and if there are suitable foods for him to eat. We've been feeding him from the table when we eat Chinese, Italian, and Indian, as well as good old American foods we cook here at the house.

One night while we're there, we're dining in the Queen Victoria Dining Room at Victoria & Albert's. One of our party will hang out with our son while we have an intimate dinner. I've spoken with the IPO and they have told me that's not a problem - that our party member (babysitting) will be "our guest" on the concierge level and that she can come and go freely between our room and the concierge lobby/lounge. Has anyone done this before, and, if so, what has your experience been?

And for that matter, has anyone dined in the QVDR before? Is it truly worth the price? We tried for the Chef's Table, but it was booked the only night we would be able to all get together.

We'll be there for 7 nights. We have all our dining reservations squared away and I've had a nice interaction with the IPO via email (which is nice, seeing as how I'm 12 hours ahead of Orlando). I've already enlisted Nana (who doesn't mind at all - and is looking forward to it!) to babysit when our son needs a break... but has anyone brought a 15 month old before? Of course we'll have a stroller, and of course we know he won't remember much (if any) of the experience, but I'm wondering what we should expect. I know this is beyond the scope of this post (and thread), but I'm wondering how the "parent-line swap" bit will work out. I've heard great things about it and I've heard that not all the cast members are aware of it.

Sorry for rambling. It's getting late here. If you can think of any helpful information, I would surely appreciate it. Thank you for your help and for being part of a great community!

Zac

 

[MommyGina]

k&a&c'smom - We have eaten at Narcossees before. It's been a few years since we have been there. Last time we were there, the server was not the best. He was not attentive to any of his tables. We all had surf and turf. The lobster tail was very chewy and the filet was just okay. Dinner was nothing to write home about.

We are talking about having dinner again next year. We have given second chances to places that were not so good the first time around and have found that they have gotten better!

msmith1026 - Happy Anniversary! Are you going to eat at Narcosees for your anniversary?

 

[msmith1026]

k&a&c'smom - We have eaten at Narcossees before. It's been a few years since we have been there. Last time we were there, the server was not the best. He was not attentive to any of his tables. We all had surf and turf. The lobster tail was very chewy and the filet was just okay. Dinner was nothing to write home about.

We are talking about having dinner again next year. We have given second chances to places that were not so good the first time around and have found that they have gotten better!

msmith1026 - Happy Anniversary! Are you going to eat at Narcosees for your anniversary?

MommyGina, we are! I have an ADR made for 8 in hopes of also seeing fireworks. I'm pretty excited, it's our one grown up dinner the whole trip, all of our other meals seem to be centered around the princesses!

 

[Figaro972]

I know i read somewhere but now i can not find it and DH doesnt believe me...

When you arrive at GF does someone from concierge meet you in the lobby? or do we have to find them?

can someone please let me know the process when you are staying CL (i hear its a separate check in).

 

[MommyGina]

I know i read somewhere but now i can not find it and DH doesnt believe me...

When you arrive at GF does someone from concierge meet you in the lobby? or do we have to find them?

can someone please let me know the process when you are staying CL (i hear its a separate check in).

If you are taking the ME to the GF, the concierge member assigned to your family meets you at the bus.

I don't know for sure if you are driving to the GF, but I did see the CMs meet the cars pulling up to the hotel too.

Have fun!!!!

 

[Figaro972]

we have a car service taking us from the airport to the hotel.

and thank you!!!

 

[DisneyBride'03]

Hi all!! Been a long time since I stopped by! I need some info from the experts Please refresh my memory....the Deluxe rooms, what makes them deluxe again? The sq footage...and are they considered the tower rooms...and some do not have a balcony and/or daybed??

ETA: Not a deluxe room in RPC....Just did a search and I think I found the info I needed!

On a side note, just read about possible DVC at GF....I would love that...esp since the rumor was it would be ready by summer of 2013...perfect for our 10 yr anniv of our FTW....but could still be rumor!!

Thanks for any info on the Deluxe rooms!!!

 

[janeapplemeadow]

I know i read somewhere but now i can not find it and DH doesnt believe me...

When you arrive at GF does someone from concierge meet you in the lobby? or do we have to find them?

can someone please let me know the process when you are staying CL (i hear its a separate check in).

If you are driving your own car or are arriving by limo, they will ask your name at the gate and alert concierge CM of your arrival. If you are on ME, get off the bus and go to the concierge desk at the entrance and a CM will meet you there.

 

[disneydreamin247]

This is probably a silly question, but do the laundry machines accept your KTTW card like at CR?

 

[BCV23]

Hi everyone. I'm new to this board, though I've been lurking for a few days.

I live in Australia with my wife and our 14 month old son. We've lived here about 16 months, and our son was born here. We're Americans and travel back to the U.S. once or twice a year. This year, we're celebrating my birthday at Disneyworld, and we're all very excited. I had only been twice before I got married, but since being married, we've been 3 times.

The first time my wife and I went, we stayed at PO-FQ. The second time, we stayed at The Swan. The third, we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. This time, we're making a big deal of it all and staying at the GF on the RPC level. Our room type is "Deluxe - King." I guess my questions relate to what we should expect there. I'll toss around a few specific questions, but if you know something that might benefit us, please tell me.

We'll have in-laws with us too, so our "party size" is about 6 people, but will vary as family members living in the Orlando region come to see us... but this won't affect our stay at the GF.

When I booked the trip, I was told by the person I spoke with to call 10 days prior to leaving to request one of two rooms... either a "rectangular" or "octagonal" room. Does anyone have input on what those mean as far as view is concerned?

We've been around the world a few times and stayed on concierge levels before. I'm interested in seeing the Disney take on concierge treatment. Are the "snacks" offered throughout the day substantial? I'm thinking primarily of our son (who will be 15 months old and probably walking, since he's RIGHT.ON.THE.VERGE of walking now) and if there are suitable foods for him to eat. We've been feeding him from the table when we eat Chinese, Italian, and Indian, as well as good old American foods we cook here at the house.

One night while we're there, we're dining in the Queen Victoria Dining Room at Victoria & Albert's. One of our party will hang out with our son while we have an intimate dinner. I've spoken with the IPO and they have told me that's not a problem - that our party member (babysitting) will be "our guest" on the concierge level and that she can come and go freely between our room and the concierge lobby/lounge. Has anyone done this before, and, if so, what has your experience been?

And for that matter, has anyone dined in the QVDR before? Is it truly worth the price? We tried for the Chef's Table, but it was booked the only night we would be able to all get together.

We'll be there for 7 nights. We have all our dining reservations squared away and I've had a nice interaction with the IPO via email (which is nice, seeing as how I'm 12 hours ahead of Orlando). I've already enlisted Nana (who doesn't mind at all - and is looking forward to it!) to babysit when our son needs a break... but has anyone brought a 15 month old before? Of course we'll have a stroller, and of course we know he won't remember much (if any) of the experience, but I'm wondering what we should expect. I know this is beyond the scope of this post (and thread), but I'm wondering how the "parent-line swap" bit will work out. I've heard great things about it and I've heard that not all the cast members are aware of it.

Sorry for rambling. It's getting late here. If you can think of any helpful information, I would surely appreciate it. Thank you for your help and for being part of a great community!

Zac

Hi Zac! Welcome to the DIS and the GF FAQ!

I'm rather tired myself but will make a couple stabs at answers. The rectangular deluxe rooms in RPC face the marina with a view of the MK. Those that are rectangular face the courtyard but as I recall, you do have a glimpse of the MK?

The snacks in RPC are substantial IMO. Whether they would work for your toddler, I'm not certain. I think they would have for all of ours. As for traveling to WDW with a young one, ours were 8 mos, 14 mos and 8 mos on their respective first trips. Easy peasy although of course they have no memory of those trips.

We haven't dined in QVDR but have quite a few times at V&A including once at the Chef's Table. Love V&A. I would keep trying if you really want the Chef's Table. I've seen people post about cancellations.

Welcome, again.

k&a&c'smom, good luck with your router!

 

[KCmike]

 

[garada3]

Hi everyone. I'm new to this board, though I've been lurking for a few days.

I live in Australia with my wife and our 14 month old son. We've lived here about 16 months, and our son was born here. We're Americans and travel back to the U.S. once or twice a year. This year, we're celebrating my birthday at Disneyworld, and we're all very excited. I had only been twice before I got married, but since being married, we've been 3 times.

The first time my wife and I went, we stayed at PO-FQ. The second time, we stayed at The Swan. The third, we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. This time, we're making a big deal of it all and staying at the GF on the RPC level. Our room type is "Deluxe - King." I guess my questions relate to what we should expect there. I'll toss around a few specific questions, but if you know something that might benefit us, please tell me.

We'll have in-laws with us too, so our "party size" is about 6 people, but will vary as family members living in the Orlando region come to see us... but this won't affect our stay at the GF.

When I booked the trip, I was told by the person I spoke with to call 10 days prior to leaving to request one of two rooms... either a "rectangular" or "octagonal" room. Does anyone have input on what those mean as far as view is concerned?

We've been around the world a few times and stayed on concierge levels before. I'm interested in seeing the Disney take on concierge treatment. Are the "snacks" offered throughout the day substantial? I'm thinking primarily of our son (who will be 15 months old and probably walking, since he's RIGHT.ON.THE.VERGE of walking now) and if there are suitable foods for him to eat. We've been feeding him from the table when we eat Chinese, Italian, and Indian, as well as good old American foods we cook here at the house.

One night while we're there, we're dining in the Queen Victoria Dining Room at Victoria & Albert's. One of our party will hang out with our son while we have an intimate dinner. I've spoken with the IPO and they have told me that's not a problem - that our party member (babysitting) will be "our guest" on the concierge level and that she can come and go freely between our room and the concierge lobby/lounge. Has anyone done this before, and, if so, what has your experience been?

And for that matter, has anyone dined in the QVDR before? Is it truly worth the price? We tried for the Chef's Table, but it was booked the only night we would be able to all get together.

We'll be there for 7 nights. We have all our dining reservations squared away and I've had a nice interaction with the IPO via email (which is nice, seeing as how I'm 12 hours ahead of Orlando). I've already enlisted Nana (who doesn't mind at all - and is looking forward to it!) to babysit when our son needs a break... but has anyone brought a 15 month old before? Of course we'll have a stroller, and of course we know he won't remember much (if any) of the experience, but I'm wondering what we should expect. I know this is beyond the scope of this post (and thread), but I'm wondering how the "parent-line swap" bit will work out. I've heard great things about it and I've heard that not all the cast members are aware of it.

Sorry for rambling. It's getting late here. If you can think of any helpful information, I would surely appreciate it. Thank you for your help and for being part of a great community!

Zac

ZacharyW

Where in Australia do you live? My husband and I lived in Alice Spings for 6 years. A wonderful time in our life together. Our oldest DS was born there - even was given an Aboriginal name by an elder.

I am not a frequent poster on the DIS but the Grand Floridian is my favorite resort at WDW and I thought I might put some suggestions into the discussion.

The octagonal king rooms in the main building (Royal Palm Club) are located off the main lobby on the 3rd, 4th and 5th floors I believe. These rooms do not have balocnies but have windows almost all the way around the octagon. Some look out over the monorail, some over the resort and I believe the one on the upper floor facing the parks can see the castle. These rooms are convenient to reach via the gold elevators in the main lobby. Just get on the lift, insert your RPC Key to the World Card and press your floor number.

The rectangular king rooms are located down a wing of the main building away from the main lobby and on the second floor. Above you would be the 3rd, 4th floor theme park view rooms (this is where I love to stay!) These rooms overlook the marina and have a view of the monorail and castle in the distance and are just above the Grand Floridian's quick service restaurant, Gasparilla's. These rooms have balconies but you do hear some noise from the diners at the outdoor tables just below the rooms. Balconies are nice for when the kids need to go to sleep early and mom and dad want a relaxing adult beverage and a chance to talk without waking the kids. These second floor rooms are not quite as convenient to reach from the main lobby, it involves two elevator rides: first take the gold elevator to the third floor, walk half-way down the wing, board another elevator to descend one floor to the second floor then continue down the wing to your room. An elevator ride would also be needed to access the lounge on the 4th floor or the concierge desks on the third floor.

The second elevator I mentioned is accessible from the ground level of the hotel, but it is not in the main lobby, it is in a small entrance located by the quick serve place. It is great if you are coming from the boat or hotel grounds and want to avoid the main lobby.

However, given the stuff that goes along with a 14th month old, I would want to consider the hassles involved with two elevator rides to return to the room from the monorail or to reach the RPC lounge or staff members. Just something to think about.

I am sure a more veteran poster will be along to provide more information. I am sure you will have a wonderful trip! Your child might not remember it but you will

 

[DisneyBride'03]

Just booked RPC for December! Havent stayed at GF in years but am there every trip to wine or dine! So excited!!

 

[RachelTori]

Just booked RPC for December! Havent stayed at GF in years but am there every trip to wine or dine! So excited!!

Congrats on your booking!! I know you will have a magical time!!

What a great time of year too! The beautiful tree, the gingerbread house, the friends (and possible celebrities) you will see there.........

 

[DisneyBride'03]

Congrats on your booking!! I know you will have a magical time!!

What a great time of year too! The beautiful tree, the gingerbread house, the friends (and possible celebrities) you will see there.........

Um, last time I checked Your name is on the reservation! Yes it was a magical booking