The *NEW* Polynesian Resort FAQ thread - *SEPT 2008*

[MsStinkerBelle]

This was our first stay since Captain Cook's was re-done. I don't think the set-up flows very well. I think I see how Disney intended the traffic flow to work but people don't really follow it so it gets's crowded and crazy in there. And the food prep service was SO slow. Lots of people were complaining about how long it was taking. We once waited 20 minutes for 2 burgers and a flatbread pizza.

While I love the food at Captain Cooks, the layout really irritates me. Whether it's because of certain limitations or what, whenever peak times hit the traffic flow stinks and there's a considerable back up in time for food prep. I once waited about 15 minutes for two grilled cheese sandwiches but it was during a dinner rush. We usually go during off-peak times but that time was a fluke.

And I think the Poly is using the new arcade as a meat locker too. It was SO cold in there! Brrrrr!

Well, with all of those video game machines generating heat--the A/C is usually at full-blast. Wouldn't want one of those suckers to overheat--definitely not pretty.

 

[LuvMySoldier07]

Am I looking for a more laid back dining experience or is a more raucous atmosphere my desire. Is it breakfast or dinner? I would choose Kona over 'Ohana for breakfast. Dinner would depend on what I was seeking--a more true "dining" style with multiple entree choices or a more active atmosphere with a set entree fare.

We've found both restaurants good, but prefer Kona for breakfast. If you give more information on what you are seeking, I'd be happy to refine my opinion.

It's just my boyfriend and I going to Disney, so we want to eat at more quiet and relaxed restaurants. We are definitley having breakfast at Kona one morning but have to choose between Ohana and Kona for dinner one night. I know Ohana is more loud and theres a set menu, but is it worth trying since I would have already eaten at Kona? Or should I have two meals at Kona and skip Ohana?

 

[shyjade]

It's just my boyfriend and I going to Disney, so we want to eat at more quiet and relaxed restaurants. We are definitley having breakfast at Kona one morning but have to choose between Ohana and Kona for dinner one night. I know Ohana is more loud and theres a set menu, but is it worth trying since I would have already eaten at Kona? Or should I have two meals at Kona and skip Ohana?

We prefer 2 meals at Kona to any meals at Ohana.

 

[MsStinkerBelle]

I know Ohana is more loud and theres a set menu, but is it worth trying since I would have already eaten at Kona? Or should I have two meals at Kona and skip Ohana?

With just the two of you, I think you would have a better time and better food choices at Kona. 'Ohana is better for families with everything going on. Granted this is just my opinion, I would skip 'Ohana and dine at Kona twice. Plus the line-up to check in for 'Ohana is, and I'm not kidding, a madhouse most nights. Even when just going to Kona or catching the monorail, we don't even go up the stairway that goes past 'Ohana.

 

[Lilmattie13]

We love Ohana. Yes it can be a bit noisy but if you plan it right time wise, you can even enjoy Wishes through the windows. I think the atmosphere is just wonderful. If you have never tried it, it would be worth trying to broaden your experiences. Then next time you can choose your favorite

 

[shyjade]

With just the two of you, I think you would have a better time and better food choices at Kona. 'Ohana is better for families with everything going on. Granted this is just my opinion, I would skip 'Ohana and dine at Kona twice. Plus the line-up to check in for 'Ohana is, and I'm not kidding, a madhouse most nights. Even when just going to Kona or catching the monorail, we don't even go up the stairway that goes past 'Ohana.

I totally agree! We avoid Ohana because of the crowds too. INSANE!

 

[lilmissdisney216]

I unfortunately have 1 year until I get to the Poly *pouts*. For those of you who are Poly veterans, what would you say are some must do/ must seen things at the Poly.

 

[shyjade]

I unfortunately have 1 year until I get to the Poly *pouts*. For those of you who are Poly veterans, what would you say are some must do/ must seen things at the Poly.

Our favorite thing to do at the Poly is just relax and take it all in! We love watching Wishes from the beach, walking the beautiful paths and soaking up the tropical foilage. It's just beautiful there, and makes me feel so tranquil, which is why I pay the high prices.

 

[Tess]

It's just my boyfriend and I going to Disney, so we want to eat at more quiet and relaxed restaurants. We are definitley having breakfast at Kona one morning but have to choose between Ohana and Kona for dinner one night. I know Ohana is more loud and theres a set menu, but is it worth trying since I would have already eaten at Kona? Or should I have two meals at Kona and skip Ohana?

Hmmm. . .sounds as if the others are giving great opinions--I would agree with Kona x2 rather than 'Ohana. The one caveat would be if your boyfriend is one who loves to chow down--the all you can eat factor with the steak and shrimp seem to please a lot of guys. 'Ohana is fun too despite the noise factor, but seems to run hot and cold where the food is concerned. We've loved it and been less than impressed. That said, we plan to hit 'Ohana next May.

 

[lilmissdisney216]

I can't wait for my stay at the Poly. Me and DBF Ben are going to Disney in 2010 and I'm just nervous that he isn't gonna like the Poly at all. He's more campy and is really pushing for the Wilderness Lodge. Eek, we have a bit of an issue there. I want the Poly he wants WL.

 

[LuvMySoldier07]

Thank you everyone for your opinions!

 

[swald91]

Not this last trip-but the previous one-my mom & I went to the luau & my hubby & kids went to Kona-didn't like it. We all went to Ohana for dinner-I thought it was ok (went on free dining-yeah- but wouldn't spend $$ to go again) & my hubby loved it!!!! Go figure!

 

[ReneeDisney]

Just booked the Poly for January 24th - February 1st for a family winter getaway!

 

[HeyIt'sMe]

Here are some pictures of the view from the room we stayed in last week (Fiji #3313) - -

Looking straight ahead:

Looking to the right:

Looking to the left:

Looking down:

Zooming in on the Contemporary:

 

[BCV23]

Thanks for the Polynesian pictures, HeyIt'sMe. Beautiful!

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

HeyIt'sMe,
Thank you for posting those pictures, they look great.

 

[shyjade]

Your view looks very similar to the view we had last year in Fiji 2316. Wasn't that a great location? I loved it!

 

[MsStinkerBelle]

Here are some pictures of the view from the room we stayed in last week (Fiji #3313) - -

Thanks so much for the pics--they're gorgeous! I've requested Fiji for our December trip. Hopefully I'll get the view you got.

 

[luvs_eeyore]

HeyIt'sMe, what a great view! We've never stayed in Fiji, but I'd love to get that location sometime.

 

[Marc A.]

We are leaving in less than two weeks and we can't wait!!!!
As for O'hana's, I have been trying to get into the Character B-fast for weeks now for the 13th and they have no time at all available?????
What are the odds of actually showing up and getting in?

Hope the weather warms up.