The Twelve Days of Swinter: From Castaway 'Key' to a Partridge in a Palm Tree!

[Mndisneygirl]

Well, I'm probably not too much help on the resort pools. We stayed at POR once, but did not use the pool. Never stayed at CSR - but I agree, the pool does look great. I have heard the food court at CSR is good. Then again I liked the food court at POR a lot.

Renting points - here's some thoughts. Never done it. Now I own DVC, but pretty much always use our few points. Be sure to go through either the DIS boards or a reputable place. Sometimes Disers will rent out via FB too. You can get the DDP when staying on DVC points. Just no free dining deals.

Split stay- will you have a car? Then it's pretty easy. Just load up the car in the morning, go to the new resort, check in and get room keys etc. Then go to wherever you want to spend the day. You probably have to have two reservations, with two different DDPs. Just make sure to keep track of all your credits, we almost lost some in the switch over.

 

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Well, I'm probably not too much help on the resort pools. We stayed at POR once, but did not use the pool. Never stayed at CSR - but I agree, the pool does look great. I have heard the food court at CSR is good. Then again I liked the food court at POR a lot.

Renting points - here's some thoughts. Never done it. Now I own DVC, but pretty much always use our few points. Be sure to go through either the DIS boards or a reputable place. Sometimes Disers will rent out via FB too. You can get the DDP when staying on DVC points. Just no free dining deals.

Split stay- will you have a car? Then it's pretty easy. Just load up the car in the morning, go to the new resort, check in and get room keys etc. Then go to wherever you want to spend the day. You probably have to have two reservations, with two different DDPs. Just make sure to keep track of all your credits, we almost lost some in the switch over.

I knew I could count on you Sheree!

I'm not sure on the car. DH wants to fly, but I don't. We haven't fought that one out yet. I honestly had not even thought about that part. I wonder how changing resorts works if you are flying. Maybe Shelly can help with that question.

It sure would make things a lot easier for me if I knew what discounts were coming (if any) for the fall. That is the only thing about plannning a WDW trip that annoys me! I hate having to wait so long to find out about discounts. That is one great benefit you have with being a DVC member.

I've looked over on the DVC board here on the DIS and I can rent from there cheaper than through David's, but it seems more complicated. Almost as soon as someone posts that they have points for rent, there are tons of replies asking for them. I don't know how you could be quick enough to get them. And also, there doesn't seem to be any safety nets doing it that way. I really would have no way of knowing if someone would take my money and run. I'd really prefer just to get a great discount through Disney on a deluxe resort. I just don't know if they do that in the fall or not???

Thanks for the help Sheree! I have a lot to think about and research I suppose.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

You're very welcome! I didn't think I was all that helpful though!

I think Shelly took a cab one time when she split-stayed (yes I made that a verb!). I also think the hotels would transfer the luggage for you. I think I heard or read that somewhere!

The Timeshare store sometimes has rental points available now too.

I know - I've heard some stories about renting that make me nervous. It would be great if it was someone you "knew" from the boards at least.

It is hard to plan when you don't know what kind of offers may come out. We like to plan more than 3 months ahead!

 

[MEK]

I am starting backwards in reading your TR and I am laughing at your DH paying for the bucket of soda. See what men do when they don't listen. shocking!

I can't believe your daughter encountered that little "ruffian". What the...? I can't wait to read the rest of your TR. tonight my DH agreed to the cruise so I am in Major Planing Mode!!!!!

 

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

You're very welcome! I didn't think I was all that helpful though!

I think Shelly took a cab one time when she split-stayed (yes I made that a verb!). I also think the hotels would transfer the luggage for you. I think I heard or read that somewhere!

The Timeshare store sometimes has rental points available now too.

I know - I've heard some stories about renting that make me nervous. It would be great if it was someone you "knew" from the boards at least.

It is hard to plan when you don't know what kind of offers may come out. We like to plan more than 3 months ahead!

I think I remember Shelly taking a cab too. I wonder how your luggage tags work since you start at one place and end at another. Maybe it doesn't matter on the way back.

We like to plan far in advance too and 3 months just doesn't cut it. I wish the decision makers at Disney knew what we go through in planning out trips and waiting for discounts!

I am starting backwards in reading your TR and I am laughing at your DH paying for the bucket of soda. See what men do when they don't listen. shocking!

I can't believe your daughter encountered that little "ruffian". What the...? I can't wait to read the rest of your TR. tonight my DH agreed to the cruise so I am in Major Planing Mode!!!!!

Reading it backwards??? I've never done that before. Maybe it will make it more interesting! It is going to make you very confused when you get to the thong girl story though.

Yes, my DH is notorious for doing things like buying free drinks! Gotta love 'em though! And the ruffian... we seem to attract people like that wherever we go so I guess it wasn't very shocking to me.

Congrats on your cruise! That is wonderful! You are going to love DCL!!!

 

[VAisforDisneyLvrs]

Castaway Cay looks really pretty. I love the all of the flowers.

I can't wait for you to actually get to WDW! I am looking forward to seeing more.

 

[dmwang9]

I've looked over on the DVC board here on the DIS and I can rent from there cheaper than through David's, but it seems more complicated. Almost as soon as someone posts that they have points for rent, there are tons of replies asking for them. I don't know how you could be quick enough to get them. And also, there doesn't seem to be any safety nets doing it that way. I really would have no way of knowing if someone would take my money and run. I'd really prefer just to get a great discount through Disney on a deluxe resort. I just don't know if they do that in the fall or not???

I've read enough positive reviews of David's business that if I were looking to rent DVC points, I'd go through him without giving it a second thought. Before I bought into DVC, I looked at the rent/trade board here on the DIS, and I just couldn't bring myself to rent points from a complete stranger. Please understand that this is a statement about *my* own insecurities, not the people on the rent/trade board -- from everything I've heard, virtually everyone who rents their points there is reliable, and there have been only a handful of "bad apples". However, given the amount of money that we're talking about, I just couldn't bring myself to do it, and that was almost assuredly my loss. However, I ultimately decided that I'd be fretting all the time about the 1 in a million chance that I'd get ripped off, and it wasn't worth the worry -- WDW trips (inluding planning them!) are supposed to be fun and relaxing.

As for deluxe resort discounts, have you considered the Swan or Dolphin? I notice that in a previous post, you listed the Epcot DVC resorts as places you might like to stay. The Swalphin would get you into the same area, and because they're not Disney-owned, they they often offer discounts that Disney doesn't. I always stayed there on their educator's discounts, and they also offer discounts for nurses and government employees. They also often run good deals available to the general public. I'm not sure if you listen to the Dis Unplugged podcast, but the podcast team has always said that the Swalphin is a fantastic on-property value.

Ok, I just re-read that last paragraph, and I *swear* that I'm not a Swan/Dolphin employee!

Can't wait until the next update!

-- Dave

 

[lovegrumpy]

We have stayed at the dolphin and my boys loved how big the pool is. The rooms are a pretty good size. Only bad thing is the counter service isn't part of dinsey dining plan.

 

[MeMom]

World's best decision-maker here to the rescue!
(Not, not, not.)

As far as anything I have heard about David's, he is 100% legit with no problems. Jill rented from a random DVCer once and Wigd sold us points once.

When we did a split stay, we stayed the majority of the time at Pop and then added on a couple of nights at the end at Wilderness Lodge. It was very nice, and since we packed all but our last two days' needs, it was a breeze to pack to go home.

Beach Club is wondrous, of course. Walking in the back door of Epcot or over to Boardwalk is great. The whole area is beautiful! I guess it depends on if you want to try something different than the beachy feel for this trip.

We loved AKL. We sat on the balcony in the mornings and found it hard to want to get up to leave. The pool is awesome, as is the gift shop.
The animals speak for themselves.
Really, they do.
The mingos can get quite loud sometimes.

With POR/POFQ, you have the advantage of two major pools and two food courts. POR is way better than POFQ, except for beignets. The walk between them is one of the most peaceful places on Disney property. These resorts would give you a whole different experience than a tropical one. You have the nice boat service to DTD, too.

For me personally, CSR is pretty to take pictures of, but not anything I have a great desire to stay at.

We're wondering about free dining, as well. It has been there, but with the exciting new things to come, will that change?

So, now that I have been an extreme help, what have you decided to do?

 

[MEK]

Decisions, decisions…. Help please!

In my randomness to catch up on your TR I just read this (but now I need to go back and read about the thong girl ).

I've stayed at CSR and it is a beautiful resort. The main pool is pretty fabulous! I really didn't think it had a convention feel. It felt nicely upscale to me. The funny thing was I stayed there AFTER staying at a 2BR in kidani. That made it harder to LOVE the resort because of where I had just come from. Still - if you are into pools and like the idea of a mod I don't think you can go wrong.

On the other hand, while POR doesn't have the coolest main pool, all of its quiet pools are pretty great!

I don't have any experience renting DVC points although I know several members who have rented successfully. I've been a DVC member since 2008 and I really do love staying in all the DVC resorts. Not getting free dining is a trade off, but all the resorts are fabulous. You can NOT go wrong with a DVC stay. So far I have stayed at all of them except BWV (staying there in June). There is a lot of information on DVC rentals on the DVC board. I think a split stay sounds fabulous. Best of both worlds!

Don't forget - if you stay DVC you can pool hop to the other resort pools with the exception of SAB and the AKL pools. I've pool hopped to both the Poly and the Grand Flo and those pools were are pretty darn great!

Happy Planning!

 

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Castaway Cay looks really pretty. I love the all of the flowers.

I can't wait for you to actually get to WDW! I am looking forward to seeing more.

CC is unreal. Pictures just don't do it justice!

I am ready for the WDW portion too. It was such a wonderful trip there this time... maybe the best one ever!

I've read enough positive reviews of David's business that if I were looking to rent DVC points, I'd go through him without giving it a second thought. Before I bought into DVC, I looked at the rent/trade board here on the DIS, and I just couldn't bring myself to rent points from a complete stranger. Please understand that this is a statement about *my* own insecurities, not the people on the rent/trade board -- from everything I've heard, virtually everyone who rents their points there is reliable, and there have been only a handful of "bad apples". However, given the amount of money that we're talking about, I just couldn't bring myself to do it, and that was almost assuredly my loss. However, I ultimately decided that I'd be fretting all the time about the 1 in a million chance that I'd get ripped off, and it wasn't worth the worry -- WDW trips (inluding planning them!) are supposed to be fun and relaxing.

As for deluxe resort discounts, have you considered the Swan or Dolphin? I notice that in a previous post, you listed the Epcot DVC resorts as places you might like to stay. The Swalphin would get you into the same area, and because they're not Disney-owned, they they often offer discounts that Disney doesn't. I always stayed there on their educator's discounts, and they also offer discounts for nurses and government employees. They also often run good deals available to the general public. I'm not sure if you listen to the Dis Unplugged podcast, but the podcast team has always said that the Swalphin is a fantastic on-property value.

Ok, I just re-read that last paragraph, and I *swear* that I'm not a Swan/Dolphin employee!

Can't wait until the next update!

-- Dave

First of all, please don't hesitate to give your honest opinions on anything. I know there are people on the DIS that will horse whip you for saying what you really think about something, but I am not one of them. Everyone has different feelings and opinions... that's the whole 'variety is the spice of life' thing!

And I would say that I agree with you about renting from David's. Everything I've read has been positive too and I feel a lot more comfortable renting from him than an indiviual on the DIS. It looks like he charges a little more, but I agree that it is worth it to have peace of mind. I think if we rent, that's the way we will go, unless someone I 'know' on the DIS has points to rent.

Honestly, I have not given the Swan/Dolphin any thought. They have never really appealed to me on the outside and I've never looked into them. I basically know nothing about either one. Maybe I should at least try to find some pictures and see more what they look like on the inside and what the pools look like.

Thanks a bunch for your help!

We have stayed at the dolphin and my boys loved how big the pool is. The rooms are a pretty good size. Only bad thing is the counter service isn't part of dinsey dining plan.

Ok, I'm going to check out the pools at the Swan/Dolphin. It won't hurt to at least take a look. Maybe I'll be surprised! The CS is a issue though.

World's best decision-maker here to the rescue!
(Not, not, not.)

As far as anything I have heard about David's, he is 100% legit with no problems. Jill rented from a random DVCer once and Wigd sold us points once.

When we did a split stay, we stayed the majority of the time at Pop and then added on a couple of nights at the end at Wilderness Lodge. It was very nice, and since we packed all but our last two days' needs, it was a breeze to pack to go home.

Beach Club is wondrous, of course. Walking in the back door of Epcot or over to Boardwalk is great. The whole area is beautiful! I guess it depends on if you want to try something different than the beachy feel for this trip.

We loved AKL. We sat on the balcony in the mornings and found it hard to want to get up to leave. The pool is awesome, as is the gift shop.
The animals speak for themselves.
Really, they do.
The mingos can get quite loud sometimes.

With POR/POFQ, you have the advantage of two major pools and two food courts. POR is way better than POFQ, except for beignets. The walk between them is one of the most peaceful places on Disney property. These resorts would give you a whole different experience than a tropical one. You have the nice boat service to DTD, too.

For me personally, CSR is pretty to take pictures of, but not anything I have a great desire to stay at.

We're wondering about free dining, as well. It has been there, but with the exciting new things to come, will that change?

So, now that I have been an extreme help, what have you decided to do?

I'd buy points from Wigd or any of the other Dissers that I feel like I know. It's hard to believe that Wigd had any left over to sell though!

That's exactly what I was thinking on a split stay. Stay somewhere cheaper for the majority of the week and then just stay the last few nights at a deluxe. Whenever we have had to stay a night on the way down there, we have packed a separate bag too and it does make it so much easier. I could do that for a split stay too.

I know I would love BC, BW or AKL. AKL is the cheapest to rent points for so it may win out, but I do love those Epcot resorts and the whole Boardwalk area. And SAB, you just can't beat that! Although I will say that the pool at AKL looks really nice too. Very tropical in a jungle sort of way.

So are you saying that you have use of both resorts if you stay at either of the PORs? Can you use both pools? That might be a deciding factor. And I do like the boat to DTD.

I really do wonder if FD will end with September this year. I know the expansion opening is going to bring so many people in that I just don't think I can bank on it this time. If they do offer it, I wonder if it will be very specific for just certain resorts and room categories. I just don't think I can hold out to make a choice. If I wait until discounts would normally come out, I probably won't get a DVC rental. But once I pay for the rental, I don't know if I can canel without loosing my money.

Thanks for the help Memom!

In my randomness to catch up on your TR I just read this (but now I need to go back and read about the thong girl ).

I've stayed at CSR and it is a beautiful resort. The main pool is pretty fabulous! I really didn't think it had a convention feel. It felt nicely upscale to me. The funny thing was I stayed there AFTER staying at a 2BR in kidani. That made it harder to LOVE the resort because of where I had just come from. Still - if you are into pools and like the idea of a mod I don't think you can go wrong.

On the other hand, while POR doesn't have the coolest main pool, all of its quiet pools are pretty great!

I don't have any experience renting DVC points although I know several members who have rented successfully. I've been a DVC member since 2008 and I really do love staying in all the DVC resorts. Not getting free dining is a trade off, but all the resorts are fabulous. You can NOT go wrong with a DVC stay. So far I have stayed at all of them except BWV (staying there in June). There is a lot of information on DVC rentals on the DVC board. I think a split stay sounds fabulous. Best of both worlds!

Don't forget - if you stay DVC you can pool hop to the other resort pools with the exception of SAB and the AKL pools. I've pool hopped to both the Poly and the Grand Flo and those pools were are pretty darn great!

Happy Planning!

Pool hopping... oh now you have given me a whole new batch of worms to sort through! That is very interesting. I had no idea! Wow, the wheels are turning....

Well, I am glad to hear that someone likes CSR. That place doesn't get much love around here. It looks really pretty and the pool looks awesome, so I'm not sure what it is that people don't like. I'd love to know what the hang up is with the place.

Thanks for your help, you have given me a lot to think about.

 

[Mndisneygirl]

In my December 09 TR I've got some pictures of the Swan room and maybe pool area. We only stayed the one night (we got there early from driving straight through!) so we did not use the pool at all. The room was nice and big and the beds were OH so comfy! Might have had something to do with the 24 hours in the car though...

The AKL pool is really nice! My kids loved it. Another good thing about AKL is that you can get a villa for less points than a lot of other resorts, so it could cost you less. When we go in October we got a Value Studio for 9 points per night. Just an example, but you get the idea.

Staying DVC and deluxe is nice too because they have lots of "extra" activities - pool games, crafts, stuff like that. We made tie dye t-shirts at Beach Club (for a small fee), the kids made an ornament out of painted broken ostrich egg shells at AKL.

We keep throwing all this information at you - probably not making your choices any easier, are we?

I guess one way to do it is to look and see what the rentals are going for, plus really think about what resort you'd be interested in. Maybe that will help narrow it down a little.

 

[sjs314]

I have only stayed at POFQ and CSR both of which I did like. CSR has a great pool and the room more of a Deluxe feel to them but it is large. We stayed in Casitas 1 which I believe is not preferred but it is very close to the lobby, stores and food. The pool was a bit of a walk but then when your in a big resort you have to choose what is important to you.

POFQ is small and that has an appeal to but the pool is nothing special although you can use the pool over at POR and since they are within walking distance it is like your getting 2 resorts for the price of one.
Maybe DD would like the Royal Rooms?

I agree with you about renting points, I just am not the type to trust a stranger, and would probably go with Davids.

I have never done a split stay but you like CBR or POP maybe you could do a Deluxe with a split with CBR or POP? From what I know Disney transfers your luggage to the new resort and it is all relatively painless or you can move it yourself via car or taxi.

I think after seein your DD in the water during your last trip the BC would be a great fit as SAB is something I think she wuold enjoy a lot. I have stayed at YC and you can not beat being able to walk or boat to Epcot and DHS.

I hope a good discount comes out for you guys.

I want to go back in the fall and keeping my fingers crossed that I can maybe book the BB when we go next month.

 

[Tiggerrn2]

Just weighing in. I have stayed at POR with all adults, though we did use the pool. The slide was down for refurb, so couldn't speak to how fun or not it may be. The pool is nothing fancy, but nice enough. We stayed in the mansion section (Magnolia) and it was a great location. We walked over the bridge for meals. CS at POR is great. Many options. And I loved the shop! And Piano Bob in the Rooster Lounge puts on a great show! If you stay there, be sure to catch him. I loved the feel of the resort, walking along the path between the 2 sides of the resort is quite enjoyable. The boat ride to DTD is really nice, too.
AKL is wonderful! We've stayed there twice. Savannah view the first time and pool view the second. While I loved the Savannah view, loved watching the animals each morning, the pool view was a nicer spot to be in as far as being closer to the the dining areas and a shorter walk to the room from the lobby. Plus, there are so many places around the lodge to view the animals. The Mara is a great CS place to eat. And it often has some of the same food choices as BOMA at a much cheaper price. The pools are nice, too. My kids definitely preferred the pool over at Kidani, so we walked each day from Jambo to use the Kidani pool. We all loved the lifegaurd games by the pool.
OK, now for Beach Club. Stayed there in Aug 08. You could not go wrong here. The pool is fantastic. My kids spent time there daily during that trip. Though I have to say the portion of the pool with the sand bottom did tend to be warmer water than I would have liked for the end of August. Had to move to the lazy river portion to really cool off on a hot day. But the location!!! I loved walking to and from Epcot and DHS. Loved entering Epcot via the International Gateway (and better yet-leaving to walk back to the hotel at the end of the day and missing the crowds). Cape May is great for breakfast, but the BC is really lacking in CS options. Hurrican Hannahs out by the pool was always really busy (and took forever), and the little cafe inside the shop didn't have too much to offer (but the soup and sandwiches were good). Beaches and Cream was OK-great for desert-but again not much to offer for real food. But just having the ability to walk to Epcot to eat, or even onto the Boardwalk for food and fun entertainment was so awesome. We had movies on the beach and smores at the campfire. If I had to pick a spot for someone to try (and they could manage the cost), this is it!!
Never stayed at CSR, but my nephew and his family did. The kids loved the pool, though they did say everything was really spaced far apart and the walk from their room to eat/swim, could get old. They also didn't like having the tip put on their CS food bill. It was automatically added to the bill.
So, did that help?! LOL You will get so many differing opinions. As far as DVC, I've never tried. I do like you do. I look at it and then worry something would go wrong. But I would definately consider (and actually am considering) a split stay with 4 days at POP (which we've never tried before) and 2 at the Poly. I have always wanted to try that resort. So I am hoping, and praying that a nice code will come out. My stay at the Beach Club was affordable only because of a nice 40% off room rate. Will keep my fingers (and toes) crossed for one of those again.

 

[Mommy2BnB]

I just found your trip report. I remember reading one of your earlier reports. Your DD looks so cute with her short hair. I'm sure it must be much easier to take care of. Your family looks like they are having such a great time on the cruise. I have never been on a cruise, although I have been to the Bahamas and I was not impressed. But Castaway Cay looks wonderful!!! Can't wait to read more.

 

[wigdoutdismom]

Finally back catching up!

So much to comment on....

About the vacation dilemma.
First of all. You NEED to go earlier in October.

We started out renting points before we bought into DVC. I think we rented three times then we were hooked!
Just this past Christmas I found some points for my daughter's MIL for our Christmas trip on the DIS. Yes, someone posts and they do get responses but that doesn't mean don't try too. You might end up the one that it works out for.

I think in another year I'm going to have some extra points, but not this year. I just booked a trip for a team teacher and that used up the rest of our 2012 points.

Yes, I'm a Beach Club bum, er fan! I think however you would love any deluxe resort you could get. Each one has it's perks! Bay Lake has certainly won me over as well!

Now back to the TR...

I have never been on Pelican Plunge.
Everyone told me that it was really fast. After watching your video I'm thinking it wasn't so fast. I may have to give it a try!
My blood pressure went up just reading about that little brat bothering your daughter! UGH!
Your "friends" bottom was not pretty hanging out of her suit. I can't imagine how it looked in all it's glory at Blue Lagoon!

Ready for the next update!

 

[MEK]

I am almost caught up. Your first day in the cruise sounded fabulous. What a wonderful day in the Blue Lagoon and I love the pictures you took on the way there and back. You did a great job of explaining everything to someone like me who has never been. Oprah's house is amazing.

Your breakfast looked really good and your beach time was fabulous. Your DD looks like she had a great time!!!!!

And - yes - you can pool hop with DVC. I love the Poly pool so when I stayed at BLT I couldn't pass up that opportunity! The Poly pool is so much cooler than the BLT pool!

 

[wigdoutdismom]

One more thought...
The split stay.
I'm not a fan.
We've done it, in my opinion it's like losing half a day in the parks. We do have the purple lockers to consider when packing up though, plus I over pack.You need to be out by 11:00 in the morning. Mousekeeping will be knocking on your door early on check-out day. I always put up a do not disturb sign.
The resort will move your things. You just call for bell services and they come get it and send it over to your new resort. At that point you can either go to a park, or get a taxi to your resort and check-in.
Just remember that actual check-in isn't until 4:00 so going to a park for a bit isn't a bad option, then getting a bus to that new resort and checking in later works really well...
So final thought on that?
If a split stay can extend your trip. Do the split stay. I'm always for more Disney days!

 

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

In my December 09 TR I've got some pictures of the Swan room and maybe pool area. We only stayed the one night (we got there early from driving straight through!) so we did not use the pool at all. The room was nice and big and the beds were OH so comfy! Might have had something to do with the 24 hours in the car though...

The AKL pool is really nice! My kids loved it. Another good thing about AKL is that you can get a villa for less points than a lot of other resorts, so it could cost you less. When we go in October we got a Value Studio for 9 points per night. Just an example, but you get the idea.

Staying DVC and deluxe is nice too because they have lots of "extra" activities - pool games, crafts, stuff like that. We made tie dye t-shirts at Beach Club (for a small fee), the kids made an ornament out of painted broken ostrich egg shells at AKL.

We keep throwing all this information at you - probably not making your choices any easier, are we?

I guess one way to do it is to look and see what the rentals are going for, plus really think about what resort you'd be interested in. Maybe that will help narrow it down a little.

Thanks Sheree! It is a lot of info but that's what I need. I want to weight it all out good before I make up my mind.

I noticed that AKL was much cheaper than the others and you get a better room for less. That is definitely something to consider.

I do like the little extra activities that come with the DVC/deluxe places. I know DD would like to do some of that stuff.

All the rentals on David's site are $13 per point. That is higher than what they rent for on the DIS. Most of the DIS folks are renting for $7-$11 per point. Either way it is so much cheaper than rack rates.

I have only stayed at POFQ and CSR both of which I did like. CSR has a great pool and the room more of a Deluxe feel to them but it is large. We stayed in Casitas 1 which I believe is not preferred but it is very close to the lobby, stores and food. The pool was a bit of a walk but then when your in a big resort you have to choose what is important to you.

I think CSR sounds pretty good. We are used to the big resort after staying at CBR. I agree though if you get a good room location, it's not a big deal. We had the perfect spot at CBR and LOVED it!

I think the rooms at CSR look great too. They do seem more like a deluxe.

POFQ is small and that has an appeal to but the pool is nothing special although you can use the pool over at POR and since they are within walking distance it is like your getting 2 resorts for the price of one.
Maybe DD would like the Royal Rooms?

I did not realize until recently that the PORs were connected. That is something to consider. I'd love to have access to two resorts. I really don't like the looks of the POFQ pool at all. There really isn't much to that pool slide. Looks like it's more for very little kids. Now that DD is getting older, she likes the big ones. But the slide at Riverside looks a lot better. I love the mansions too! They are gorgeous!

I'm sure DD would love the new rooms (I assume you are talking about the P&F rooms?), but I'm usually not one to pay a lot for room upgrades. I'll have to check into it and see how much extra it is.

I agree with you about renting points, I just am not the type to trust a stranger, and would probably go with Davids.

Yeah, I'm sure I couldn't do it. I'll probably go with David's.

I have never done a split stay but you like CBR or POP maybe you could do a Deluxe with a split with CBR or POP? From what I know Disney transfers your luggage to the new resort and it is all relatively painless or you can move it yourself via car or taxi.

I think after seein your DD in the water during your last trip the BC would be a great fit as SAB is something I think she wuold enjoy a lot. I have stayed at YC and you can not beat being able to walk or boat to Epcot and DHS.

I hope a good discount comes out for you guys.

BC is my dream resort. It is the one I had my eye on from day one of my Disney obsession! But you really can't beat any of the DIsney resorts. They all have great qualities.

I want to go back in the fall and keeping my fingers crossed that I can maybe book the BB when we go next month.

I sure hope you get that BB offer and if you do I want ot be the first to hear about it!

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Just weighing in. I have stayed at POR with all adults, though we did use the pool. The slide was down for refurb, so couldn't speak to how fun or not it may be. The pool is nothing fancy, but nice enough. We stayed in the mansion section (Magnolia) and it was a great location. We walked over the bridge for meals. CS at POR is great. Many options. And I loved the shop! And Piano Bob in the Rooster Lounge puts on a great show! If you stay there, be sure to catch him. I loved the feel of the resort, walking along the path between the 2 sides of the resort is quite enjoyable. The boat ride to DTD is really nice, too.

Wow, you may have sold me on POR! It sounds great!

AKL is wonderful! We've stayed there twice. Savannah view the first time and pool view the second. While I loved the Savannah view, loved watching the animals each morning, the pool view was a nicer spot to be in as far as being closer to the the dining areas and a shorter walk to the room from the lobby. Plus, there are so many places around the lodge to view the animals. The Mara is a great CS place to eat. And it often has some of the same food choices as BOMA at a much cheaper price. The pools are nice, too. My kids definitely preferred the pool over at Kidani, so we walked each day from Jambo to use the Kidani pool. We all loved the lifegaurd games by the pool.

Thank you so much for your opinions on the savanah view. I was thinking those same things myself. There is quite a price difference between the two rooms and I was wondering if the SV was worth it since you can see that all around the resort. That was very helpful! I think we would like the pool view as well. Big money saver there.

OK, now for Beach Club. Stayed there in Aug 08. You could not go wrong here. The pool is fantastic. My kids spent time there daily during that trip. Though I have to say the portion of the pool with the sand bottom did tend to be warmer water than I would have liked for the end of August. Had to move to the lazy river portion to really cool off on a hot day. But the location!!! I loved walking to and from Epcot and DHS. Loved entering Epcot via the International Gateway (and better yet-leaving to walk back to the hotel at the end of the day and missing the crowds). Cape May is great for breakfast, but the BC is really lacking in CS options. Hurrican Hannahs out by the pool was always really busy (and took forever), and the little cafe inside the shop didn't have too much to offer (but the soup and sandwiches were good). Beaches and Cream was OK-great for desert-but again not much to offer for real food. But just having the ability to walk to Epcot to eat, or even onto the Boardwalk for food and fun entertainment was so awesome.
We had movies on the beach and smores at the campfire. If I had to pick a spot for someone to try (and they could manage the cost), this is it!!

BC sounds so awesome! That really is my first choice. We'll have to see if the budget can handle it. I hadn't thought about it not having a good CS place though. Hmmm, that will take some figuring out.

Never stayed at CSR, but my nephew and his family did. The kids loved the pool, though they did say everything was really spaced far apart and the walk from their room to eat/swim, could get old. They also didn't like having the tip put on their CS food bill. It was automatically added to the bill.

Ok, that is weird! Why would you tip for CS? I don't like that. I wonder how that works if you're on the DP.

So, did that help?! LOL You will get so many differing opinions. As far as DVC, I've never tried. I do like you do. I look at it and then worry something would go wrong. But I would definately consider (and actually am considering) a split stay with 4 days at POP (which we've never tried before) and 2 at the Poly. I have always wanted to try that resort. So I am hoping, and praying that a nice code will come out. My stay at the Beach Club was affordable only because of a nice 40% off room rate. Will keep my fingers (and toes) crossed for one of those again.

I'd love to get a 40% off code too. I sure hope you enjoy your split stay. We want to try the Poly too. And Pop is a great way to save money. I think the values are perfect if you are going to be in the parks most of the time anyway.

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I just found your trip report. I remember reading one of your earlier reports. Your DD looks so cute with her short hair. I'm sure it must be much easier to take care of. Your family looks like they are having such a great time on the cruise. I have never been on a cruise, although I have been to the Bahamas and I was not impressed. But Castaway Cay looks wonderful!!! Can't wait to read more.

WELCOME and thank you! The short hair is a life saver! We got it cut right before the trip so we wouldn't have to deal with it with all the water stuff we were doing.

I agree that the city part of the Bahamas is not at all impressive. If we go back we will again find something to do other than go into Nassau. I think BL island and Atlantis are the best picks. But you are right, CC is awesome!

 

[RinkyTinkyTinky]

Finally back catching up!

So much to comment on....

About the vacation dilemma.
First of all. You NEED to go earlier in October.

I wish! I can't do a thing about the school schedule though. I haven't gotten the school calendar for next year yet, but I feel sure their fall break will again be at the end of October.

We started out renting points before we bought into DVC. I think we rented three times then we were hooked!
Just this past Christmas I found some points for my daughter's MIL for our Christmas trip on the DIS. Yes, someone posts and they do get responses but that doesn't mean don't try too. You might end up the one that it works out for.

I think in another year I'm going to have some extra points, but not this year. I just booked a trip for a team teacher and that used up the rest of our 2012 points.

I still find it hard to believe that you ever have points left over! I don't blame you though. If I had them, I would use every last one!

Yes, I'm a Beach Club bum, er fan! I think however you would love any deluxe resort you could get. Each one has it's perks! Bay Lake has certainly won me over as well!

Now back to the TR...

I have never been on Pelican Plunge.
Everyone told me that it was really fast. After watching your video I'm thinking it wasn't so fast. I may have to give it a try!

It is not fast. To me it was no faster than any other slide I've been on. Trust me, I am the ultimate ride chicken. If I can do it, anybody can!

My blood pressure went up just reading about that little brat bothering your daughter! UGH!
Your "friends" bottom was not pretty hanging out of her suit. I can't imagine how it looked in all it's glory at Blue Lagoon!

Why don't you tell us what you really think Wigd! You said it! You really cannot imagine what it looked like fully exposed... and that wasn't all that was exposed!

My DD is very passive, so we tend to have those sorts of issues with the 'brats' as you put it. It never fails, if we go to a park or play area, there is always some kid who throws sand in her face, jumps in front of her in line, pushes her down the slide... whatever. I'm trying to teach her to stand up for herself more though. It's sometimes hard to teach kids what to let roll off your back and when to put your foot down, ya know? There's a fine line between ' do unto others' and being a doormat for people to walk on.

Ready for the next update!

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I am almost caught up. Your first day in the cruise sounded fabulous. What a wonderful day in the Blue Lagoon and I love the pictures you took on the way there and back. You did a great job of explaining everything to someone like me who has never been. Oprah's house is amazing.

Your breakfast looked really good and your beach time was fabulous. Your DD looks like she had a great time!!!!!

And - yes - you can pool hop with DVC. I love the Poly pool so when I stayed at BLT I couldn't pass up that opportunity! The Poly pool is so much cooler than the BLT pool!

Thanks! I tried to give as many details as possible for those planning trips.

Oprah's house is pretty nice isn't it? I could live there!

We all had a wonderful time there. It was so peacful and quiet. A real paradise hideaway.

The pool hopping is a very nice plus. That will definitely be a factor to consider!

One more thought...
The split stay.
I'm not a fan.
We've done it, in my opinion it's like losing half a day in the parks. We do have the purple lockers to consider when packing up though, plus I over pack.You need to be out by 11:00 in the morning. Mousekeeping will be knocking on your door early on check-out day. I always put up a do not disturb sign.
The resort will move your things. You just call for bell services and they come get it and send it over to your new resort. At that point you can either go to a park, or get a taxi to your resort and check-in.
Just remember that actual check-in isn't until 4:00 so going to a park for a bit isn't a bad option, then getting a bus to that new resort and checking in later works really well...
So final thought on that?
If a split stay can extend your trip. Do the split stay. I'm always for more Disney days!

Thanks for the help Wigd! I don't think I would do a split stay for a shorter trip, but I think I can make it work for a long one of 10-12 days. You seem to have a good system worked out there too. Between you and Sheree giving me tips, I think it will work out ok and not take up too much time.