The *New* Grand Floridian Resort and Spa FAQ thread (NOV 2008)

[TinkTatoo]

TinkTatoo - Our experience with the bus system has been hit-and-miss. We used to rave about WDW transportation to our friends and family, but in the last few years, it has gotten worse, IMO.

The bus to DTD is particularly problematic, as a PP mentioned. We always take a cab or our car. We have taken a cab to AK, but we don't do that regularly, we had waited for quite some time before we finally threw in the towel!

As far as sharing, we've had our buses share with most of the MK-area resorts. Our last trip, we shared with WL, but it changes regularly, probably according to occupancy. ETA: - I see you said that in your post, my computer took too long!

Thanks - I don't think we'll bother with any of the parks when were at the GF and we'll plan our meals around places that we can get to on the monorail

 

[Babyboo]

I m sure this is in here somewhere, but after a quick scan I can't find that answer.

How far in advance can I book a cabana? Is it 60, 90 or 180 days.

We'll be at the Grand for 10 days in August so will definately want a cabana for a couple of days for chillin out

Thanks
Melissa

 

[princessesrule4]

I might have a photo....have to look! The menu is very limited...but Chris said it's the "guaranteed menu"...you CAN order off the PD...but if they have it great..if not sorry. I remember getting a copy from somewhere down there...I didn't bring it from the room....they can get you a copy...or just take a peek at it before you head out and have an idea what you might want?? But I think they can get it for ya.....this time we just hiked over to Gaspies...we needed a stretch and the walk did us good.

Right....Gaspies is fine..but the only thing I have ever EVER ordered is the chicken tenders. I get sick of those fast ...wouldn't want that every single day.

I have Jojo home sick today...and DH working from home..so my day is off ....i will look when I get a chance! But we didn't see anything that thrilled us so that's part of the reason we chose Gaspies.

I have to add - because Jojo just walked by me...OMG..she took a bath with a Mickey bathbomb....she smells so good I could eat her...my whole master bath and bedroom smell heavenly sweet.....last time she was sick she used Pink Sugar...and omg..it is beautifully yummy....and the scent stays on and lingers....the bathbombs are wonderful.
Chan
GF cabana Gal

I think the only two things I've ever had at Gaspies is cheesburgers and pizza!

Okay, I am using a bathbomb tonight! DD has been using the Hot Fudge Sundae soap and it smells so good!

Hope JoJo feels better- hopefully the Mickey bathbomb helped!

 

[mandymommy4]

Chan, would you have a copy of the cabana PD menu? I remember it was really limited last June.

Can we order from the regular PD menu? Would the cabana attendents have a copy handy? I really don't mind taking the menu from the room, I just need to know if it's necessary.

I know we discussed this but I forgot what you said.

We're on the DxDDP and from PD you can order a complete meal. I know DH would prefer this than eating in Gaspies. We'll be at the pool most afternoons and I need to break up having lunch at Gaspies everyday

I enjoy the food at Gaspies, DH is just not a CS fan.

Mare this is the picture of the PD menu taken last week

This is what Chris said was the guaranteed menu......

I enjoyed my Gapsys chicken tenders..... i am a simple girl!

 

[goofygal531]

Thanks Mandy!

Chan: I remember you mentioning "guaranteed" menu and couldn't figure out what that means. Now I remember there being a limited menu from PD midday. So that's what they must mean. DH is just so damn picky, I'll let him deal with it. I'll probably hike over to Gaspies for the kids meals I had their roast beef sandwich a few times last year, I don't mind having that a few days for lunch but the King needs "better" food

How do you all know what flavor the bath bombs are??? I have two left in my barrel and I never know which ones I'm using!

 

[goofygal531]

Why is the Cabana menu so limited when all this is offered on the regular menu?? Strange??? I guess I just don't understand why the cabanas have a limited menu when you can order from the regular PD menu and have it delivered anywhere at the resort (your room or poolside)?

It just makes more sense to order off the regular menu. We're spending 2TS credits either way.


GF PD Lunch Menu Lunch served from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Appetizers
Lump Crab Cake - with Cajun remoulade sauce $8.99
Garlicky Spinach Dip - with focaccia chips $6.50
Shrimp Cocktail $13.50

Soups
French Onion Soup - $6.79
Chicken Noodle Soup - $5.79


Grand Salads
House Salad - $5.99
Cobb Salad - $12.99
Caesar Salad - $6.99; with grilled chicken or shrimp $13.99
We also offer a reduced-fat Caesar and Ranch dressings.

Signature Sandwiches - All sandwiches are served with your choice of fries, chips or potato salad.

The Earl of Sandwiches - $11.99
New York Style Reuben - $10.99
Turkey Club Sandwich - $10.99
Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Homemade Veggie Burger - $10.99
Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich $15.99
Pan-seared Chicken with Tomato Coulis $15.99
Penne Pasta Primavera tossed with olive oil, garlic and fresh vegetables $17.99; add chicken or shrimp $19.99
Daily Catch served with chef's accompaniments $17.99

Desserts
Florida Key Lime Pie $6.29
New York Cheesecake $6.29
Seasonal Dessert Selection $6.29
Strawberry Shortcake $6.29
Add a scoop of Haagen Dazs ice cream (vanilla, chocolate or cinnamon) $1.00

 

[IWISHFORDISNEY]

How do you all know what flavor the bath bombs are??? I have two left in my barrel and I never know which ones I'm using!

I am a little OCD with my BASIN stash. I seperate my bath bombs with those wrappers and write it on there so I know what is what.

 

[goofygal531]

I am a little OCD with my BASIN stash. I seperate my bath bombs with those wrappers and write it on there so I know what is what.

While your in Basin?

I just threw all the bombs in the barrel.

Oh Cabana rental is 90 days whoever asked.

 

[Lives4Disney]

I am a little OCD with my BASIN stash. I seperate my bath bombs with those wrappers and write it on there so I know what is what.

LOL...I only like a few scents...so I only buy those few and I know what they are! We just painted our master bath and I bought a huge lidded glass jar and put them all in...OMG>..when I open the lid.....YUMMMMMMmmmm!!!!

I just got back from running - DH is home working - so even though Jojo is home sick I was free - and she still smells so good!!!

While your in Basin?

I just threw all the bombs in the barrel.

Oh Cabana rental is 90 days whoever asked.

LOL....did you buy tons and lots of different scents??

Mare this is the picture of the PD menu taken last week

This is what Chris said was the guaranteed menu......

I enjoyed my Gapsys chicken tenders..... i am a simple girl!

Awesome pic, Mandy!! THANKS from me too so I don't have to dig for mine! I love the chicken tenders too...and that honey mustard dressing!!! I guess we can just walk over to Gaspies every day for lunch while we are livin' the high life in our cabana.

I think the only two things I've ever had at Gaspies is cheesburgers and pizza!

Okay, I am using a bathbomb tonight! DD has been using the Hot Fudge Sundae soap and it smells so good!

Hope JoJo feels better- hopefully the Mickey bathbomb helped!

That's funny how we get in a Gaspies rut. I have NEVER done the bathbomb thing!!!!! But smelling Jojo has me rethinking taking time out for myself!

Chan
GF lovin' Gal

 

[mandymommy4]

LOL...I only like a few scents...so I only buy those few and I know what they are! We just painted our master bath and I bought a huge lidded glass jar and put them all in...OMG>..when I open the lid.....YUMMMMMMmmmm!!!!

I just got back from running - DH is home working - so even though Jojo is home sick I was free - and she still smells so good!!!



LOL....did you buy tons and lots of different scents??



Awesome pic, Mandy!! THANKS from me too so I don't have to dig for mine! I love the chicken tenders too...and that honey mustard dressing!!! I guess we can just walk over to Gaspies every day for lunch while we are livin' the high life in our cabana.



That's funny how we get in a Gaspies rut. I have NEVER done the bathbomb thing!!!!! But smelling Jojo has me rethinking taking time out for myself!

Chan
GF lovin' Gal

Girl i could LIVE on Chicken tenders and honey mustard...... don't you remember me and Kel almost fighting over one!

Oh that and a Pina Colava

 

[goofygal531]

LOL....did you buy tons and lots of different scents??

Yes! I just walked around and threw different ones in the barrel. I think you get 2 free if you buy the barrel.

I also bought the shower gel, I use that more often. The bath bombs are for when I need to destress. But I'm running low. I only have two left, I have no idea what flavor thought

They must change them often, I didn't see a Mickey one in Nov.

 

[Lives4Disney]

Girl i could LIVE on Chicken tenders and honey mustard...... don't you remember me and Kel almost fighting over one!

Oh that and a Pina Colava

Don't you remember I had four drinks? NO...I do not remember you and Kel fighting over anything......it was all good.

Yes! I just walked around and threw different ones in the barrel. I think you get 2 free if you buy the barrel.

I also bought the shower gel, I use that more often. The bath bombs are for when I need to destress. But I'm running low. I only have two left, I have no idea what flavor thought

They must change them often, I didn't see a Mickey one in Nov.

The Mickey ones are white and have spots...they dissolve and leave little Mickeys floating in the water...it's a very yummy sweet scent like pink sugarish.

There weren't a lot of scents that I liked...so I kind of stick with a handful...and they are diff colors....that helps me remember.

OK...off to read with the Jojo!!

Chan
GF Gal not Poly Gal

 

[BlueSkies]

I have no idea what Basin bath bombs we bought either.... I just kept picking them up sniffing and adding what we liked.... DD did get a few of the mickey ones though...very nice....

This trip we shopped in Basin and Basin White...now we have a nice stash of soap...(and bath bombs...)

Channing Youre right about the bath bombs... not only does the person using the bath bomb smell good so does everything else...

Mare We did order from the cabana PD menu last trip and enjoyed the reuben sandwich and the chicken sandwich...and chicken tenders for the little ones...every thing was good....

Love the variety from the regular PD menu though....

 

[mmmears]

OK -- now you all have me and my DD obsessing about Basin White! And we still have 51 days to go, and a few more before we can get over to the shop! I think I remember that someone posted photos of the shop online here -- if anyone know where the photos were posted (I've completely forgotten ), please let me know. We've already been to the basinwhite website today, but that's just not enough!

 

[BlueSkies]

mmears I know it...Once you get started with the Basin stuff...you just want more...

And it is so nice that the Basin White store is there at the GF....

I dont know where there are pics of the store...I think Channing said they asked her not to take any when she tried to.... Cant imagine why though....

I had some left over fall soaps(which had a wonderful scent) and I cut them and put some in our drawers and in the linen closet...everything smells soooo nice...nothing like a little Basin recycling...

51 days to go....

 

[mmmears]

mmears I know it...Once you get started with the Basin stuff...you just want more...

And it is so nice that the Basin White store is there at the GF....

I dont know where there are pics of the store...I think Channing said they asked her not to take any when she tried to.... Cant imagine why though....

I had some left over fall soaps(which had a wonderful scent) and I cut them and put some in our drawers and in the linen closet...everything smells soooo nice...nothing like a little Basin recycling...

51 days to go....

I think that's what I remember -- Channing not being allowed to take photos! Oh well, I guess we'll have to wait. The scents at Basin in LA just didn't do it for us, but (at least by the names of the ones at the GF) we're hoping that Basin White will. Sounds more fruity anyway. We both just love all that bath stuff in general.

That's a great idea to freshen up your drawers -- little soap bits! I'll have to try that one!

 

[Lives4Disney]

I think that's what I remember -- Channing not being allowed to take photos! Oh well, I guess we'll have to wait. The scents at Basin in LA just didn't do it for us, but (at least by the names of the ones at the GF) we're hoping that Basin White will. Sounds more fruity anyway. We both just love all that bath stuff in general.

That's a great idea to freshen up your drawers -- little soap bits! I'll have to try that one!

BUT I DID TAKE PHOTOS!! Where there is a will there is a way!!! I had a couple CMs come down with me...they talked to the Basin staff and guess what....I got pics!

They are on my website.....

Chan
Basin lovin' GF GAL!

 

[mmmears]

BUT I DID TAKE PHOTOS!! Where there is a will there is a way!!! I had a couple CMs come down with me...they talked to the Basin staff and guess what....I got pics!

They are on my website.....

Chan
Basin lovin' GF GAL!

Can you send me a link to the photos? (It's ok if you dont, we're just curious). I dont remember the store when we stayed at the GF last time, but then it was a couple of years ago and my DD doesn't generally like to go shopping!

 

[sixthscents]

Rama, you're welcome!!

I have a couple questions..not sure if you know the answers...

The rooms I listed for you are the roll in shower rooms....I know what those are but..I am just curious for my own knowledge what the accessible tub would be...what would the difference be to make it accessible?? There are only four of these rooms....

And then the other....."SPecial Accessibility Rooms for Guests (w/bathtub handrails)" ?? There are A LOT of these rooms.


Thanks for any info!
Channing

Channing,

Sorry it took me so long to get back to you, sometimes work gets in the way.

Anyway, the accessible tub would be an actual tub that has a door on the side so the person could slide from their wheelchair onto a bench inside the tub. Then you fill the tub with water for a full bath. Have you seen photos of that type tub? The sides are much taller than a regular tub and they are a shorter length. They have a built in bench for the person to sit on that is about chair height. Then you can close the door and it seals tight enough that it can be filled with water up to about the shoulders. Very nice for someone in a wheelchair who wishes to take a bubble bath.

The "SPecial Accessibility Rooms for Guests (w/bathtub handrails)" would be just a standard tub with grab bars mounted on the side and back of the shower area to use for support for someone who can manuver enough to step over the regular tub side. The bars provide something secure for a person to hold onto if they need it in the shower or when entering and exiting the tub/shower. These bars are often combined with a shower chair to sit on while in the tub and a hand held shower head to make showering easier.

The accessible tubs are very expensive and most people prefer to use the shower. That would be my guess as to why there are so few of those.

Hope this info will be useful. I really appreciate how helpful everyone has been to me and hopefully this info will enable you guys to help someone else as well.

Thanks again,
Rama

 

[Lives4Disney]

Can you send me a link to the photos? (It's ok if you dont, we're just curious). I dont remember the store when we stayed at the GF last time, but then it was a couple of years ago and my DD doesn't generally like to go shopping!

www.WhereTheMagicLives.com

Channing,

Sorry it took me so long to get back to you, sometimes work gets in the way.

Anyway, the accessible tub would be an actual tub that has a door on the side so the person could slide from their wheelchair onto a bench inside the tub. Then you fill the tub with water for a full bath. Have you seen photos of that type tub? The sides are much taller than a regular tub and they are a shorter length. They have a built in bench for the person to sit on that is about chair height. Then you can close the door and it seals tight enough that it can be filled with water up to about the shoulders. Very nice for someone in a wheelchair who wishes to take a bubble bath.

The "SPecial Accessibility Rooms for Guests (w/bathtub handrails)" would be just a standard tub with grab bars mounted on the side and back of the shower area to use for support for someone who can manuver enough to step over the regular tub side. The bars provide something secure for a person to hold onto if they need it in the shower or when entering and exiting the tub/shower. These bars are often combined with a shower chair to sit on while in the tub and a hand held shower head to make showering easier.

The accessible tubs are very expensive and most people prefer to use the shower. That would be my guess as to why there are so few of those.

Hope this info will be useful. I really appreciate how helpful everyone has been to me and hopefully this info will enable you guys to help someone else as well.

Thanks again,
Rama

THANKS so much Rama.....Since I have the room number info..I just was curious what the differences really were. I appreciate you taking the time to respond!! THANKS!!!

Channing
GF GAL!