The NEW WL FAQ (Part 5) Simbas and Tiggers and Humphreys OH MY! Part 2

[sewer]

When I first started looking for a resort for my families Aug vacation I had asked about the pools at various resorts I read a post that said that the WL pool is too small for all the summer guests and that there was an issue with the ducks pooping ( excuse my terminology) in the water and it not getting cleaned out.

I thought I had made up my mind, but now I am rethinking WL. We plan on spending a lot of time at the pool so it is very important to the family.

Thanks for your help

( By the way there are 7 of us, 5 kids are 7 -14)

There are only 700 + rooms at the resort, and not everyone uses the pool at the same time. We've been to POR, and CBR which have many more rooms, and those pools do get crowded. As for the ducks, the pools are maintained very well by the WL staff, so you won't have to worry about poop!

 

[Tamara]

Hi everyone -
Although I'm not new to Disney I am new to the WL board and I need someone elses thought processes with my room view...I'm not proud to tell you that - yes, the view does matter to me. I do like to look out and have a nice view so, this is what we have so far. I booked a woodsview w/ bunkbeds through the Disney TA for our trip in June and when I called AAA to see what they could do for me, I was told there were no discounted woodsview w/bunkbeds but for $4 more (total) there were courtyard view with bunkbeds available. Our last visits to the WL was in a standard room and a 1BR in the villas so I have nothing to really compare it to.
I don't really know what I'm asking.........I guess I just want some input on what YOU would do. Go for the MK view and maintain control of my reservation or go for the courtyard view and give it up to AAA........any thoughts?

 

[vicki845]

I was thinking of calling my "hold" vacation package reservation to a room only. But my question is should I do that with my travel agent or Disney. The AAA lady is going to think I'm nuts. Her rate is the best but I have this feeling that the free DDP will be offered this year. Or should I just book AAA room only? Thanks and so sorry for being such a pest.

I booked my trip through AAA. We went with a package deal which includes the dining. I did ask my TA what happens if Disney offers the free dining, she said they would apply the the free dining code to our reservation. That would save us $800. I don't know if you can book the room only, then add the dining. Maybe one of the veterans here could answer that. You might also want to post this ? on the codes and rates thread as well. Their are a lot of people on their who know a lot about AAA.


Tamara Hi everyone -
Although I'm not new to Disney I am new to the WL board and I need someone elses thought processes with my room view...I'm not proud to tell you that - yes, the view does matter to me. I do like to look out and have a nice view so, this is what we have so far. I booked a woodsview w/ bunkbeds through the Disney TA for our trip in June and when I called AAA to see what they could do for me, I was told there were no discounted woodsview w/bunkbeds but for $4 more (total) there were courtyard view with bunkbeds available. Our last visits to the WL was in a standard room and a 1BR in the villas so I have nothing to really compare it to.
I don't really know what I'm asking.........I guess I just want some input on what YOU would do. Go for the MK view and maintain control of my reservation or go for the courtyard view and give it up to AAA........any thoughts?

Although this is my first trip staying at the Wl. It depends if you want to look at the woods and hopefully the castle or the lake/pool. We booked the courtyard view and truthfully I have been stressing out over this, the view does matter to me too. I don't know why because we will spend most of our time in the parks but I guess I just want to be able to see a nice view when I look out the balcony. I have been doing a lot of research and the more research I do the more stressed I get. I'm am now worried if I get one of those baloncies that you have to stand up to see anything..Thinking of just asking for the north wing, inner court room, 6th floor and NOT one of those balconies, but I will sound crazy asking this.

 

[zdad]

zdad- Do you post on the focker thread? I evertime I lurk there. You guys are too funny? Of course now I will be looking for the lime green mickey ears and the focker signal.

Yep, I'm one of the fockers ! It's great fun,and a neat way to have a little mini-DIS meet while you're there. Stop lurking and sign up for a croc during your next stay !!!

 

[Dalpal]

vicki845,

Although this is my first trip staying at the Wl. It depends if you want to look at the woods and hopefully the castle or the lake/pool. We booked the courtyard view and truthfully I have been stressing out over this, the view does matter to me too. I don't know why because we will spend most of our time in the parks but I guess I just want to be able to see a nice view when I look out the balcony. I have been doing a lot of research and the more research I do the more stressed I get. I'm am now worried if I get one of those baloncies that you have to stand up to see anything..Thinking of just asking for the north wing, inner court room, 6th floor and NOT one of those balconies, but I will sound crazy asking this.

I dont think you will sound crazy....I think you sound like you care about your room...You are after all paying for it!....BUT ...KNOW that you may not get what you ask for anyway...
I decided to ask what was recommended, on this thread for a great woodsview room .. ie: northside,5th floor,overlooking otter pond near elev.(room # 5032)
If I get it or in the vacinity GREAT!...If not oh well, I know I tried.. right? and its not going to make or break the vacation..

On the other hand if I get a room I just hate...I WILL go down and ask for another room....(Nicely..I find I get farther with a smile )

JMHO...

Heres to getting the perfect room for both of us!

 

[BlakeNJ]

I just realized my flight lands at 10:15am. Isn't check in @ 3pm? I was thinking on doing lunch @ WCC. Can we use the pool even though we can't check in yet? Will our luggage arrive when we do? We will be using ME.

I am not sure if your question was answered but yes, you can check in before 3pm, store your luggage, change into your bathing suits and swim! There are towels provided at the pool. The pool is right outside the lobby with access to WCC or Roaring Forks. If you are taking ME, you may not arrive to the resort before 12pm (ME makes stops at Poly & GF) so you won't have long before you can check in. Maybe just enough time to grab lunch. WCC is great!

ETA: If you are on the dining plan, you can start using your credits right after you check in--even make room charges.

 

[MickeysHouse07]

I booked my trip through AAA. We went with a package deal which includes the dining. I did ask my TA what happens if Disney offers the free dining, she said they would apply the the free dining code to our reservation. That would save us $800. I don't know if you can book the room only, then add the dining. Maybe one of the veterans here could answer that. You might also want to post this ? on the codes and rates thread as well. Their are a lot of people on their who know a lot about AAA.


Thanks. I just posted my questions under codes and rates. Thanks for your information.

 

[MAGICinMYHEART]

I just realized my flight lands at 10:15am. Isn't check in @ 3pm? I was thinking on doing lunch @ WCC. Can we use the pool even though we can't check in yet? Will our luggage arrive when we do? We will be using ME.

Vicki

As you are using Magical Express your luggage may not arrive at the same time as you. Unless you collect it at the airport and bring it with you. If you would like to swim you should bring the swimsuits in your carryon luggage, then you will know your ready.

 

[Abra Cat]

I'm sure this has been asked and answered many times over, but I've heard that the deluxe rooms/junior suites at WL are now considered concierge rooms. Is this true? I recently booked a deluxe room for next January, and this was not mentioned to me by the CM. It's my understanding that this is a recent change, so maybe she was unaware of it. Thanks for any information!

 

[snowman]

I know the answer will be "not fricking likely". However, since you guys can't take away my birthday for asking a silly question, here goes....

How likely would it be for our standard room to be ready for us to nap in at 230 pm? We land at 1pm, taking ME (I figure it will take about an hour or so to get to the resort). We'd like to take a power nap for a couple of hours before heading out to Chef Mickeys for supper.

If (as will prolly be the case) the room isn't ready, any suggestions for a quiet chair/corner to take a wee catnap?

 

[sewer]

I know the answer will be "not fricking likely". However, since you guys can't take away my birthday for asking a silly question, here goes....

How likely would it be for our standard room to be ready for us to nap in at 230 pm? We land at 1pm, taking ME (I figure it will take about an hour or so to get to the resort). We'd like to take a power nap for a couple of hours before heading out to Chef Mickeys for supper.

If (as will prolly be the case) the room isn't ready, any suggestions for a quiet chair/corner to take a wee catnap?

We took a limo to WL last year, and was there at probably 12:30. We walked up to the desk checked in, and received our room right away!

 

[warriorboy648]

I've read through 110's of posts, but I am hoping someone can tell me what the magic is about WL??? Why do you love it so much? Why do you keep coming back??

How easy is it to get to the parks? Is this considered a monorail resort.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[vicki845]

vicki845,


I dont think you will sound crazy....I think you sound like you care about your room...You are after all paying for it!....BUT ...KNOW that you may not get what you ask for anyway...
I decided to ask what was recommended, on this thread for a great woodsview room .. ie: northside,5th floor,overlooking otter pond near elev.(room # 5032)
If I get it or in the vacinity GREAT!...If not oh well, I know I tried.. right? and its not going to make or break the vacation..

On the other hand if I get a room I just hate...I WILL go down and ask for another room....(Nicely..I find I get farther with a smile )

JMHO...
Heres to getting the perfect room for both of us!

Well I email my ta and put my room request including the balcony in so we will see what happens. I have always found being nice gets you a lot farther than being nasty. Like you said if I'm not happy I can always ask for another room. Hopefully everything will work out.



BlakeNJ
I am not sure if your question was answered but yes, you can check in before 3pm, store your luggage, change into your bathing suits and swim! There are towels provided at the pool. The pool is right outside the lobby with access to WCC or Roaring Forks. If you are taking ME, you may not arrive to the resort before 12pm (ME makes stops at Poly & GF) so you won't have long before you can check in. Maybe just enough time to grab lunch. WCC is great! ETA: If you are on the dining plan, you can start using your credits right after you check in--even make room charges

Thanks! I can't wait to try WCC!



MAGICinMYHEART-As you are using Magical Express your luggage may not arrive at the same time as you. Unless you collect it at the airport and bring it with you. If you would like to swim you should bring the swimsuits in your carryon luggage, then you will know your ready.

I new there is a chance that my luggage will not arrive at the same time as me. I will pack our swimsuits in my carry on. Thanks for the info.

Vicki

 

[Anna114]

I've read through 110's of posts, but I am hoping someone can tell me what the magic is about WL??? Why do you love it so much? Why do you keep coming back??

How easy is it to get to the parks? Is this considered a monorail resort.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.

HMMM what makes it so magical. From the moment you get there, it's an enveloping feeling. Everything is large and jaw dropping. The music that plays in the background is just awesome and sets the tone. You walk up to check in and the first words you hear are "Welcome Home" and that's just what it is. The resort is huge but gives you a feeling of being cozy. At night I would take my book and my IPOD and sit in the lobby. Little of my book would be read and my IPOD not put on. Just sitting there...listening, watching...just magical. The courtyard was lovely. SO many little things to explore, paw prints in the cement, the brook, the geyser, frogs chipping, crickets...still listening to the music. Overall it's just an all inclusive feeling. It's like no other place I have ever stayed in my life.

It's not considered a monorail resort but it is part of the Magic Kingdom resorts. Getting to the parks? Magic Kingdom is very easy, taking the boat over there is a lovely ride. The bus system is what it is. Most of the time it was fine but one day trying to get a bus to Typhoon Lagoon took us about 40 mins.

Wilderness Lodge is like no other resort at WDW.

 

[Gdad]

Subscribing for my WL Trip at the end of September...

 

[Anna114]

Subscribing for my WL Trip at the end of September...

Enjoy this list. It's one of the best on the boards. No question is too small for this cast. If you haven't already make sure you read the first couple of pages it has tons of information. I envy you, there is only one first time to experience the Lodge

 

[zipuzee]

I know the answer will be "not fricking likely". However, since you guys can't take away my birthday for asking a silly question, here goes....

How likely would it be for our standard room to be ready for us to nap in at 230 pm? We land at 1pm, taking ME (I figure it will take about an hour or so to get to the resort). We'd like to take a power nap for a couple of hours before heading out to Chef Mickeys for supper.

If (as will prolly be the case) the room isn't ready, any suggestions for a quiet chair/corner to take a wee catnap?

Well we went in July last year, got it around noon and they had a room available, so it is possible. if not, there are some nice cozy spots on the 2nd and 3rd floors around the lobby that have chairs and sofas where you may be able to catch a few winks!!

 

[tinkgurl]

I've read through 110's of posts, but I am hoping someone can tell me what the magic is about WL??? Why do you love it so much? Why do you keep coming back??

How easy is it to get to the parks? Is this considered a monorail resort.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.

My family LOVES WL and we wouldn't have it any other way. Our favorite park is the MK so we also like it's location close to that as well! When we're riding the boat or bus from MK back 'home', we love that feeling as we come around the corner from the Contemporary and we're 'a million miles' from all the hype and just 'in the middle of the beautiful outdoors'. We also love exploring the resort as well. We seem to find new things every time we go! Also, we love thatcomforting music they have playing when you get 'home' from a big day at the parks!

 

[Gdad]

Enjoy this list. It's one of the best on the boards. No question is too small for this cast. If you haven't already make sure you read the first couple of pages it has tons of information. I envy you, there is only one first time to experience the Lodge

Thanks- I will certainly check it out. I've stayed at WL a few times before- I think the first time was right after my oldest was born in 1997. But to be honest with you every time I walk into that lobby feels like the first time to me.

 

[GatorEye]

I've read through 110's of posts, but I am hoping someone can tell me what the magic is about WL??? Why do you love it so much? Why do you keep coming back??

How easy is it to get to the parks? Is this considered a monorail resort.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.

There is something about the WL that you can't really explain - you just have to experience it for yourself. I think for me personally since we always go around Christmas time and we live in Florida, the WL really helps bring us the feeling of Christmas even though we are still in Florida. None of the resorts on property capture the Christmas spirit like the WL does. The soaring lobby with the Christmas tree and the giant fireplace with cozy nooks everywhere and a view of the MK and the lake, just can't be beat. At Christmas time I doubt anyone could make a case there is a resort that better conveys that time of year.

I guess part of it also depends on what kind of person you are. When we looked at the other resorts, the Contemporary seemed anything but - it looks like a big sterile toaster with no personality. The Poly might be nice during the summer, but personally we hated how spread out it was and after a long day of walking around the parks, I'm not really interested in long walks (and needing to walk outside perhaps in the rain) just to get some food at the snack bar or restaurants. The Grand Floridian just isn't our style. I have this vision of old or rich people staying there (although staying on the Club Level at WL does set me back quite a bit). Perhaps it just seems more stuffy or not as fun and casual as the WL.

I look at it this way. Traverse all the resort forums and then ask yourself, why do so few people who stay at the WL have anything bad to say and then look at your own question, "why do hundreds of posts relect why we love it so much?"

The answer... stay there once and you'll know the answer firsthand!