The New Lizard Lounge

[VAgal76]

MAG1630 - Yes, the 1 bdrm have AP rates as well from what I hear. I'm hoping to snag one for my trip as well.

 

[Steffy]

room wave!

What is it about trip withdrawl? Plan another trip!!

Hi there steveanddonna thanks for reading my mini trip report. I have really deep envy for your two trips in 30 days. I wanna go!

lovesdumbo I'm thinking of taking just my DGD back for a quickie trip. We had such fun. And I am in bad withdrawl. Really bad. I'm listening to my Wishes CD when I should be working! I've got a board meeting in a few days and have to have my year-end financials done. Yikes!!!

Vagal! Good to see you again.

Tammi, I'm so glad your trip was wonderful. When did you do the Illuminations cruise.

Dreamflight! I was thinking about you and that wonderful London trip you had planned. So glad it was everything you wished.

Tess It's getting close to your annual trip back to the Poly. I wanna go!!

floridafam, how was Christmas at the WL??

KerryCM and mmausse, good to see you!

To any of the LL I missed, hi there!!

Gotta run.

 

[goodferry]

Hi everyone! It's nice to see so many familiar faces again! I need your advice on our next trip. We will be going December 16-23. I know, it's forever away, so I will have to live vicariously through all of you until then. Anyway, our reservations are for Poly concierge. We are travelling with four children, 14, 10, 6 and 2. We stayed at the Poly last time had a blast and totally loved it. The kids said they would rather wait a little longer and stay deluxe concierge again than go back sooner, they are so spoiled! Now I am second guessing myself. Last trip we visited YC/BC and really liked it, and the kids flipped over the pool. My husband and I loved the New England styling and the atmosphere of the resort and the nearby Boardwalk. On the other hand, will we swim that much in December anyway and we always spend the least amount of time at Epcot???
Any advice, let's hear which one you liked better. I am leaning towards sticking with the Poly with the monorail outside my door, however, I know my little fish would love the BC pool!

 

[TammiMcMan]

I haven't stayed at the Poly, but we did just stay at the YC concierge in early December.

A few of the pro's are the pre-planning staff. They are probably the best that I've ever worked with. The proximity to Epcot (a 5 minute walk) and MGM can't be beat. SAB is every childs dream. The bus transporation to other areas was fine. Now for the con's. You really do have to pay extra for the water view. We supposedly had garden and it looked out over the parking lot and service building roof. The lounge is small, the offerings were very, very limited and the lounge closed between servings and at night. It was actually pretty warm when we were there and the pool is heated, but my kids only swam on one day, for less than 2 hours. They did the water slide twice, but from the pool, you have to go across the public walkway, around a corner and up some pretty big stairs. The kids got too cold doing this. I know many disagree, but as a parent, I didn't like the pool at all. It's so big and spread out, that it was difficult keeping an eye on my kids. A regular pool, you can just walk around the edge, but here there are paths and bridges and dead ends.

I love the MK and really missed being at a monorail resort and seeing the castle everyday. For our next trip, I think we are going to try and do a split stay because we do enjoy spending time at Epcot. KerryCM has talked me into trying the Boardwalk concierge, so I'd like to start there and then finish at the GF.

Tammi

 

[goodferry]

Thanks for the advice! We really enjoyed having the lounge open all the time so we could pick up a drink. Plus the older two kids felt like adults being allowed to go to the lounge to get a Coke on their own! I would love to stay at the Boardwalk, actually all of the deluxe resorts, which is one of the reasons I am considering trying a different resort since we already stayed at the Poly. We liked Poly concierge soooo much, though, I am afraid we will always end up comparing any other resort to it. Maybe I will think about switching for the last two days of our stay to BC, that way we would get to stay at both. Has anyone else switched resorts with young kids, I am worried it will be a pain.

 

[KerryCM]

ggodferry, I would go with the BW concierge if you want to try something different. The lounge stays open all day and the cast there is so wonderful. The IPO is the best around. The lounge is also roomy and very comfortable. I loved just relaxing with a cold drink there.

 

[Steffy]

Hi Goodferry,

I just got back from the Poly CL. And I have to tell you, as much as I loved the look of the BC and YC, I LOVED looking at the castle everyday. It was too cool to use the pool too much. There were such advantages, I thought, to being at the Poly.

Number one, two and three are Chef Dick. Love him.

The concierge staff. Not one wish went unfulfilled. It was wonderful.

My family loves EPCOT. And getting there by monorail was wonderful.

The monorail. Oh how much we used the monorail.

The huge rooms. The tiki torches. The white beach. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Can't wait to go back. Just can't wait.

I think if I were to do an EPCOT resort, it would be BWI so at least I could see the ball and Illuminations. I have to have my evening fireworks. And Wishes was da bomb!!

 

[Tess]

Hi Goodferry,

I just got back from the Poly CL. And I have to tell you, as much as I loved the look of the BC and YC, I LOVED looking at the castle everyday. It was too cool to use the pool too much. There were such advantages, I thought, to being at the Poly.

Number one, two and three are Chef Dick. Love him.

The concierge staff. Not one wish went unfulfilled. It was wonderful.

My family loves EPCOT. And getting there by monorail was wonderful.

The monorail. Oh how much we used the monorail.

The huge rooms. The tiki torches. The white beach. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Can't wait to go back. Just can't wait.

I think if I were to do an EPCOT resort, it would be BWI so at least I could see the ball and Illuminations. I have to have my evening fireworks. And Wishes was da bomb!!

I'm so happy you loved my favorite resort! Chef Dick is terrific as are several of the back room folks we guests rarely get to meet! Now you know why our family makes the Polynesian our primary destination when traveling to WDW! Gotta' love those Tiki torches and the ambience!

EPCOT is so convenient when you stay at the Polynesian--just a quick monorail ride away! EPCOT is also our favorite park. We've stayed at YC/BC and BWI--even with the convenience of those resorts to EPCOT, we remain loyal Polynesian fans!

Glad you had a great stay and welcome back to reality!

 

[mom_rules]

Hi all! Well it's done-all our PS's and ressies for tours have been made for our BC-CL stay and our last ressie on our cruise has been booked (ya gotta love those IPO people-not one glitch and got every time I wanted).
March can't come soon enough-having another snow storm this a.m.

We had a great experience with YC-CL last easter-first we were upgraded to waterview, then they threw a mini birthday party (cake, balloons -the works for DS, a lovely welcome basket was waiting for us. We just loved it! Although they closed the lounge for certain periods of the day we never had a problem requesting (and receiving) drinks and snacks during the day. We just took them back to our room and enjoyed them on our balcony (lovely view!)

We loved the lounge and the staff at BWI-CL. Also received an upgrade to BW view room but for some reason, my family really preferred the YC.
To each his own I guess-you will have to try them all and form your own opinion.

Since we could get neither YC or BWI this time (with AP rate) we will give BC-CL a go. Will let you know when we get back! Have a great day all!

 

[dreamflight99]

Hi all! Well it's done-all our PS's and ressies for tours have been made for our BC-CL stay and our last ressie on our cruise has been booked (ya gotta love those IPO people-not one glitch and got every time I wanted).
March can't come soon enough-having another snow storm this a.m.

We had a great experience with YC-CL last easter-first we were upgraded to waterview, then they threw a mini birthday party (cake, balloons -the works for DS, a lovely welcome basket was waiting for us. We just loved it! Although they closed the lounge for certain periods of the day we never had a problem requesting (and receiving) drinks and snacks during the day. We just took them back to our room and enjoyed them on our balcony (lovely view!)

We loved the lounge and the staff at BWI-CL. Also received an upgrade to BW view room but for some reason, my family really preferred the YC.
To each his own I guess-you will have to try them all and form your own opinion.

Since we could get neither YC or BWI this time (with AP rate) we will give BC-CL a go. Will let you know when we get back! Have a great day all!

Your trip sounds wonderful! Which Disney Cruise are you taking? We loved the BC CL the last time we visited. The location (so close to Epcot) of this resort is SO convenient. Especially when walking back from a night in the WS. Hope you have a wonderful time, and I'm looking forward to your detailed trip report when you return!!

DutchsMommy~Your trip also sounds amazing! I'm sure you will enjoy the cruise, especially with other DISers!! The cruises are always fun, and the people onboard are so friendly, (I'm sure your children will LOVE it~!). Enjoy...and do not stress the small stuff.

TammiMcMan~Which cruise did you take (yacht...Grand 1?). I've heard nothing but splendid things about this craft, and have seen the photos posted by Ducklite, etc. (I think it was Anne whom has some pics...). It's quite a cruiser. We have tried the other cruise (went w/friends once on the pontoon boat), and alone on the CC (breathless). The Birthday cake, etc., sounds like a nice surprise!

Where did the 4~night cruise take you two? I've heard of so many itinerary changes on these ships, do they still stop at St. John? Glad to read you had fun! *(Any romantic eves with DH, like in PALO'S?).

floridafam~Did you spend Christmas at the Lodge? Oh, please tell me what it was like, and if you had a tree in the room, etc. I've read many posts regarding this, and the decorations on the tree (all themed to WL). Always sounds so nice!

Steffy~ To you too! Boy, that wishes CD will do it everytime! I enjoy mine too...and love it. There are some new parades, firework's shows, and other changes in store to coincide with the 50th anniversary of DL! It's a great time for you and you DGD to take a quick trip to the MAGIC!

goodferry~As much as we enjoy the Epcot area, I would stay at the Poly CL. [/b] Even if the pools are heated year-round, it may be too cool in Dec to swim every day (thus enjoy SAB). They can always swim in the Volcano pool, and have just as much fun! The convenience of the monorail, and the MK (especially if you visit this park more than Epcot) would outweigh the benefits of the Epcot area. We too, LOVE the monorail and MK. We loved our time at the CR, walking to the MK, etc. IMHO...I would stick with the Poly in Dec. The problem with switching resorts with young children, is that they will NOT want to leave the Poly when it's time to move. They will acclimate to the resort, and be having SO much fun...you may regret the split-stay. Just something to think about.

Tess~You reminded me of ALL the reasons we enjoyed the Poly! Those Tiki torches...w.flames blowing in the soft breeze...are the BEST! Of course, it's hard to TOP the view of the Castle!


To VAgal...KerryCM, lovesdumbo, steveanddonna, mmausse, and any other LL's I may have omitted...ENJOY THE WEEKEND!

DF99

 

[TammiMcMan]

DF99, we did the regular pontoon Illuminations cruise. That was fine for us and really a highlight of our trip. The Disney cruise was actually a special repositioning. We got to sail on the Magic, which is typically their 7 night ship. It had gotten out of sync though because of the 10 night Christmas cruise. Normally the 4 night is the Wonder and it's Sunday-Thursday. This one was the Magic and it was Tuesday-Saturday. They haven't changed the itinerary, it still stops at Nassau on the first day, Castaway Cay on the second and finally the sea day. DH and I had the opportunity to eat in Palo's on all 4 evenings and finished our nights by playing backgammon in one of the clubs. Even for Disney, it was very romantic.

Tammi

 

[dreamflight99]

DF99, we did the regular pontoon Illuminations cruise. That was fine for us and really a highlight of our trip. The Disney cruise was actually a special repositioning. We got to sail on the Magic, which is typically their 7 night ship. It had gotten out of sync though because of the 10 night Christmas cruise. Normally the 4 night is the Wonder and it's Sunday-Thursday. This one was the Magic and it was Tuesday-Saturday. They haven't changed the itinerary, it still stops at Nassau on the first day, Castaway Cay on the second and finally the sea day. DH and I had the opportunity to eat in Palo's on all 4 evenings and finished our nights by playing backgammon in one of the clubs. Even for Disney, it was very romantic.

Tammi

I LOVE that pontoon cruise, and am seriously considering it w/family & friends this summer. We have rented the pontoon at DTD...and taken it back through the canals, etc. Really adventurous and fun. DD and friends were looking for Alligators (after a CM in a little skiff came by and told us there were some BIG ones in the area...so be careful!) LOL.

We took a 4~night on the Wonder two years ago, it was great. Yet, for some reason, we still prefer the Magic. We are back on it this summer...when it repositions to Los Angeles. I also enjoy the days at SEA, and this summer cruise has three full SEA days!

Palo's is simply the best. I can't imagine all four eves!!! Wow...it's difficult to get one ressie there! WHERE did you play backgammon? (which club?) I had no idea this was available on the ship. Just being on the ship seems to be romantic for us. Sitting on the balcony, watching the sea churn under the reflection of the moonlight, does wonders for the love-bug.

RRFN...DF99

The rain seems to have ceased here in So. Cali.
Hopefully, things will remain this way for a while.

 

[mom_rules]

We will be on the Wonder-have Palo dinner and a Palo Brunch booked.

Can you give us an idea of what they serve for either?

 

[steveanddonna]

Been lurking for a few days and thinking about planning a trip with just me & DD(5). Leave DH home with DS(4-yesterday) and DD(2 in 10 days). One of the best times of our Oct trip was when DH & friend took DS and DD(2) back to the room for much needed naps and DD(5) and I toured Epcot's WS together. We had a blast. Sometimes I think I expect too much out of DD(5) because she's the oldest and I am the baby of 6 so I tend to sympathise with the younger kids. I think a trip with just the 2 of us would be wonderful.

Good to see you, lovesdumbo! I have to say, one of the biggest plusses of our trips with nieces and nephews has been that each child gets one-on-one time with DH and I. At their ages, I think a few days as the center of someone's universe is as much fun as being in Disney World.

Everybody has had such fabulous trips lately; I hope reading about them will motivate me to get it in gear and contact IPO about our quickly approaching trips. I think I am reluctant to do so because I am almost embarrassed to be returning so soon after the last trip (about 7 weeks), and then returning again 2 weeks after that trip. Circumstances just made the trips fall into place that way, and I couldn't fly in the face of karma!

Enjoy your weekend, Lizards - it's in the single digits here, so I'll be staying inside catching up on all that fun household stuff that never seems to get done.

 

[TammiMcMan]

When we had the brunch, we started off with a glass of complimentary champagne. You can purchase more for $5 a glass. Our server gave us a tour of all the food stations and explained all the dishes to us. They had shrimp, alaskan king crab legs and claws. There were assorted cold cut meats, hummus, and salads. They had a variety of cheeses and crackers. There was the bread table with danish, croissants, stollen bread and muffins. The hot food was freshly made and we ordered that through our server. They had pizzas, including a sweet pizza made with fruit, eggs benedict, omelettes, pasta, minute steak and a fish dish. Dessert was fruit, mango mousse, strawberry tarts, ricotta cheesecake and lemon meringue pie.

For dinner, you are started with an assortment of breads and dipping sauces. My favorite was the mustard dip, but they also had olive and red pepper. You'll also receive a dish of olives and a plate of prosciutto ham and shaved parmesan cheese. For appetizers, there are the pizzas (all are delicious), my favorite was the portabello mushroom, but there's also a salad, soup and calamari. The entree's that we enjoyed the most were the filet mignon, rack of lamb and wild mushroom risotto. Each night they offer chefs specials also. For dessert, their signature dish is the souffle with chocolate and vanilla bean sauce. The tiramisu is wonderful as well as the cappuccino cheesecake (it's in the shape of a coffe cup). We ended our meals with the mocha coffee and one night our server introduced me to an espresso, berry martini. It had a dollop of chocolate syrup in the bottom of the glass, then they added the frothy milk, a shot of espresso and laced it with raspberry chambord. It was excellent. We ate here 4 nights in a row and each night was a culinary experience.

Donna, I also felt a little strange going on the Disney cruise within a few weeks of our Disney trip. And even now when I think that we've been to Disney 4 times in the past 12 months, it doesn't seem right. Go and enjoy!

Tammi

 

[steveanddonna]

Donna, I also felt a little strange going on the Disney cruise within a few weeks of our Disney trip. And even now when I think that we've been to Disney 4 times in the past 12 months, it doesn't seem right. Go and enjoy! Tammi

Ohhhh, Tammi, you have no idea...
We always thought we were being very decadent when we squeezed in a second WDW trip in a year. Over the last 13 months, due to business in Maitland, various family members wanting to see Disney "our way", etc. etc., we have averaged a trip every 2 months. I am very happy to be going, but I can't help feeling a little Blessed, but nuts nevertheless. BTW, your brunch sounds fabulous - my mouth is watering!

 

[DutchsMommy]

Are you staying concierge on the Wonder? I am thinking you must be to book Palo prior to your trip - if you are going concierge - congrats it looks beatiful, and if not do tell how you got those ressies.

I am really hoping to snag a Valentine's Day dinner for DH and I when we are on the Wonder (along with approx 2000 other people I am sure!!) so if they are taking Palo ressies early without staying Concierge I are all ears!

Hope all LLs are doing great!

We managed to sell our house - first people to view put in an offer at our asking price so I am happy! We are just waiting on a home inspection on the sale and all will be firm. Our purchase is firm (drove by the house today and saw the SOLD sign - the owners will think we are stalking them LOL) so now I have a little more time to devote to out trip. I purchased Tour Guide Mike and really like it - alot of info to go through though!! Take care all TTFN

 

[TammiMcMan]

Are you staying concierge on the Wonder? I am thinking you must be to book Palo prior to your trip - if you are going concierge - congrats it looks beatiful, and if not do tell how you got those ressies.

DutchsMommy, there are 2 ways to get your Palo's reservation done ahead of time. One is staying in a category 1, 2 or 3 stateroom. The other is to purchase the REAS package. That's the romantic esacape at sea. I believe it's somewhere around $339 and it includes a welcome basket with some romantic items, one night your turn down service will include rose petals, a champagne breakfast in bed, couplese massage and of course priority seating at Palo's. The massage and Palo's can be booked before your cruise. If it's something your interested in though, I would call and check on it right away. With your sailing occuring during Valentines Day, it may sell out if it hasn't done so already.

Tammi

 

[DutchsMommy]

Thanks Tammi - I totally forgot about the REAS. We did look into it a while ago but it didn't really work for us. I'll just have to make a bee-line for the Palo ressie table and hope for the best.

 

[mom_rules]

Sorry, haven't been around for a bit! Tammi thanks for the information-you are absolutely correct! We are doing the REAS (just DH and I this time around). The reservation people were great-got exactly what we wanted (plus learned a few things we had no idea about ). It's almost as good as going concierge but less $.

Between dealing with them and the Epcot resorts IPO people planning this trip has been a real dream-they made everything so easy.