The we loooooove Bonnet Creek thread! (pics and reviews)

[4Seasons]

Ok finally I got my pictures uploaded:
http://bonnetcreek1.shutterfly.com/

But haven't labeled the pics yet, sorry. Pics 139-157 are the unit I stayed in (#637 in building 3), a 1 bedroom deluxe.
The unit was in excellent condition, very clean and well maintained, no signs of wear. I did note the model unit we viewed had granite countertops and mine still had laminate ones. The tub was wonderful and it was very nice to have 2 separate sinks (even though I was alone I thought it was a great feature for a 1 bedroom unit). Balcony access only from living room.
Kitchen was well equipped although all I did was make coffee during my stay.
Internet was spotty at best and several times I either could not connect or lost connection. Wireless in the lobby worked well.
New gas grills were being installed the day I was there. Overall the grounds were very well kept, however there was some construction debris around the edges of the lake that could have been picked up (pieces of plastic, styrofoam, etc.)
All the pools were very warm (it was really chilly during my visit) and the main pool by the lobby could have used a cleaning (some faint green spots on the bottom and sides). Nothing that would have deterred me from swimming, just an observation.
Food at La Cantina pricey (almost $11 for a wrap and soda) and average at best. Never made it to the pizza place. Several local restaurants had delivery menus slipped under my door but never ordered anything.
Front desk staff was excellent. Concierge seemed a bit distant but I didn't have any extensive interaction with her. Bell staff were extremely helpful.
We also toured the 2 bedroom units (pics were blurry so didn't post them) and the INCREDIBLE 4 bedroom/4 bath presidential units. They are absolutely HUGE at 2500 square feet and you could throw a heck of a party on that big balcony!! That unit is pics 163 - 180.
Shuttle was pretty timely and it was a quick trip to EPCOT (which is the only park I visited during my short stay). On the return from the park back to the resort though I think they left a couple minutes early because we were there at 9:15 and no bus in sight.
This is the short version but I would give this property a 9 out of 10, especially for the location.
Any questions feel free to ask.

 

[4Seasons]

We are considering Bonnet Creek for our next trip. Do you know if the rooms have vacuum cleaners. Also, when renting through Ken is there housekeeping during your stay?

Thanks!

There was a vacuum cleaner in the closet as well as a broom and dust pan.

 

[ohionola]

Can someone with a membership at BC send me a PM message? I have some questions about how it works as far as availablity and using your points at other resorts and the availability there.

 

[vettechick99]

Ok finally I got my pictures uploaded:
http://bonnetcreek1.shutterfly.com/

But haven't labeled the pics yet, sorry. Pics 139-157 are the unit I stayed in (#637 in building 3), a 1 bedroom deluxe.
The unit was in excellent condition, very clean and well maintained, no signs of wear. I did note the model unit we viewed had granite countertops and mine still had laminate ones. The tub was wonderful and it was very nice to have 2 separate sinks (even though I was alone I thought it was a great feature for a 1 bedroom unit). Balcony access only from living room.
Kitchen was well equipped although all I did was make coffee during my stay.
Internet was spotty at best and several times I either could not connect or lost connection. Wireless in the lobby worked well.
New gas grills were being installed the day I was there. Overall the grounds were very well kept, however there was some construction debris around the edges of the lake that could have been picked up (pieces of plastic, styrofoam, etc.)
All the pools were very warm (it was really chilly during my visit) and the main pool by the lobby could have used a cleaning (some faint green spots on the bottom and sides). Nothing that would have deterred me from swimming, just an observation.
Food at La Cantina pricey (almost $11 for a wrap and soda) and average at best. Never made it to the pizza place. Several local restaurants had delivery menus slipped under my door but never ordered anything.
Front desk staff was excellent. Concierge seemed a bit distant but I didn't have any extensive interaction with her. Bell staff were extremely helpful.
We also toured the 2 bedroom units (pics were blurry so didn't post them) and the INCREDIBLE 4 bedroom/4 bath presidential units. They are absolutely HUGE at 2500 square feet and you could throw a heck of a party on that big balcony!! That unit is pics 163 - 180.
Shuttle was pretty timely and it was a quick trip to EPCOT (which is the only park I visited during my short stay). On the return from the park back to the resort though I think they left a couple minutes early because we were there at 9:15 and no bus in sight.
This is the short version but I would give this property a 9 out of 10, especially for the location.
Any questions feel free to ask.

Fantastic pictures! So glad you posted them. I loved seeing the Presidential Suite. I would like to rent one sometime.

I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay. Makes me excited again for mine!

I bolded the flyer part. We had tons of flyers under our doors everyday, but I want to discourage people from calling the numbers on the flyers only because I have heard (maybe a myth) that scammers make up their own flyers hoping you will call and give them your credit card number. So we made sure to call the numbers in the phone book. I may be a Nervous Nelly, but I wanted to pass that along anyway.

 

[Sammy]

vettechick99: I have most definitely heard about this as well, and it's a good reminder....thanks!

On another note, can anyone tell me if I should pack extra dishwasher soap? We are not planning on the running the dishwasher a lot, but maybe every other day once it fills with breakfast dishes and cups. Also, I'm already bringing my own Purex 3 in 1 laundry sheets, but are there any other supplies I should bring on my own (besides the usual personal items like shampoo?)

Thanks!

 

[Ashleybs]

vettechick99: I have most definitely heard about this as well, and it's a good reminder....thanks!

On another note, can anyone tell me if I should pack extra dishwasher soap? We are not planning on the running the dishwasher a lot, but maybe every other day once it fills with breakfast dishes and cups. Also, I'm already bringing my own Purex 3 in 1 laundry sheets, but iare there any other supplies I should ould bring on my own (besides the usual personal items like shampoo?)

Thanks!

They provide you with two packets of dishwasher soap I believe it was as well as soap to wash dishes and if you run out you can always call the front desk and they will bring you more or stop by the desk!

 

[disneyscuba]

Hi all,

We have stay at Bonnet creek 3 times. We love it. Nice resort. Nice workers. Don't have a lot of pics but have a couple that I havn't seen posted yet.
A sign we found around the lake. Didn't see any alligators.

Later,

DisneyScuba

 

[Cdn Gal]

Thanks so much for posting the pics! It is always exciting to see the changes that are happening at the resort. Also good news: just checked the Orlando Recording Office- found out that our latest deed for Bonnet Creek has been recorded Now we just wait for Wyndham to do the paperwork and we'll be all set!

 

[sja03a]

Fantastic pictures! So glad you posted them. I loved seeing the Presidential Suite. I would like to rent one sometime.

I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay. Makes me excited again for mine!

I bolded the flyer part. We had tons of flyers under our doors everyday, but I want to discourage people from calling the numbers on the flyers only because I have heard (maybe a myth) that scammers make up their own flyers hoping you will call and give them your credit card number. So we made sure to call the numbers in the phone book. I may be a Nervous Nelly, but I wanted to pass that along anyway.

A staff member told us when we were there once that those people are not allowed to be on the property. they somehow get in and deliver those menus but have not been able to catch them. This could be due to the semi lax security at the front gate. all you have to say is that you are checking in and they will let you in. So you can order from those places but they have to wait at the front desk and you will have to walk down to the lobby to get it. (at least that's how it was the first time we stayed there in 2008. Just something to keep in mind.

 

[sja03a]

My family is staying at BC in April. I read on a travel review site that the free disney shuttle that BC offers does not allow strollers. Can anyone tell me if this is true or not? If it is, is it set in stone? Also will the shuttle take you to down town disney or only the parks? We are not interested in a rental car. Thanks.

everytime we have used the shuttles they allowed the strollers but they had to be folded up. you couldn't keep your kids in the stroller or anything. I have seen some pretty big ones on there. It could also depend on the driver.

 

[Renee1061]

Just booked our first Bonnet Creek stay for June 12-19! I'm a Wyndham owner, but my daughter and I have always stayed on Disney property (except for a band trip last year). She starts college this year, so using our timeshare saves us a bundle! I didn't have enough points for the full week, but all I had to do was borrow from next year's points.

 

[leight]

Ok- getting excited. Have contract in hand from Ken for a two bedroom deluxe for 4 days the week of april 11. Handed in my 40 cat blankets to get the give a day promotion for 4 vouchers- we will upgrade these to the florida 4-day passes for about $40 each (depending on some factors may add the water park for another $25 each- we'd rather try out aquatica but it depends on how long we stay in orlando- if we do aquatica we'll book one nite at a hotel from hotwire probably)

I have $50 in chili gift cards- house of blues $25 off $35, sweettomatoes coupons for some off site meals.

I figure we'll eat lunch most days at the park but I have two soft sided coolers for a day or two there.

One question- if we get there early on sunday and check in- can we use the pool/facilities before the room is ready? Trying to see how best to space the tickets since I don't want to pay for park hopping.

 

[SparKeLLy]

It's been a while but I wanted to comment since we had such a great experience with the free shuttle to/from the parks. We stayed at BC in Nov 2008 and used the shuttle daily with no problems. The shuttle does go to Downtown Disney also. It was always on time and the drivers were very friendly. Hope it hasn't changed.

 

[snappy]

Ok- getting excited. Have contract in hand from Ken for a two bedroom deluxe for 4 days the week of april 11. Handed in my 40 cat blankets to get the give a day promotion for 4 vouchers- we will upgrade these to the florida 4-day passes for about $40 each (depending on some factors may add the water park for another $25 each- we'd rather try out aquatica but it depends on how long we stay in orlando- if we do aquatica we'll book one nite at a hotel from hotwire probably)

I have $50 in chili gift cards- house of blues $25 off $35, sweettomatoes coupons for some off site meals.

I figure we'll eat lunch most days at the park but I have two soft sided coolers for a day or two there.

One question- if we get there early on sunday and check in- can we use the pool/facilities before the room is ready? Trying to see how best to space the tickets since I don't want to pay for park hopping.

I see no reason why you could not use the pool, lazy river, etc. In the main building there is a bathroom with 2 showers, one of which is accessible, which has a door that opens to the pool area, right by the children's water play area.

Also, there is a pool table (maybe 2), a ping pong tabl, tables for checkers and chess. I am sure you can find something to keep you busy until your room is ready.

 

[vettechick99]

Ok- getting excited. Have contract in hand from Ken for a two bedroom deluxe for 4 days the week of april 11. Handed in my 40 cat blankets to get the give a day promotion for 4 vouchers- we will upgrade these to the florida 4-day passes for about $40 each (depending on some factors may add the water park for another $25 each- we'd rather try out aquatica but it depends on how long we stay in orlando- if we do aquatica we'll book one nite at a hotel from hotwire probably)

I have $50 in chili gift cards- house of blues $25 off $35, sweettomatoes coupons for some off site meals.

I figure we'll eat lunch most days at the park but I have two soft sided coolers for a day or two there.

One question- if we get there early on sunday and check in- can we use the pool/facilities before the room is ready? Trying to see how best to space the tickets since I don't want to pay for park hopping.

Yes you can. We checked in pretty early - I think 1pm - and were able to use the locker room and pool. Like the PP said, the locker room is at the end of the hall in the building across from the lobby (where they do all the activities). Just ask and they will point you in the right direction.

Just booked our first Bonnet Creek stay for June 12-19! I'm a Wyndham owner, but my daughter and I have always stayed on Disney property (except for a band trip last year). She starts college this year, so using our timeshare saves us a bundle! I didn't have enough points for the full week, but all I had to do was borrow from next year's points.

Yay and welcome!!!

 

[ascardino]

Ok finally I got my pictures uploaded:
http://bonnetcreek1.shutterfly.com/

But haven't labeled the pics yet, sorry. Pics 139-157 are the unit I stayed in (#637 in building 3), a 1 bedroom deluxe.
The unit was in excellent condition, very clean and well maintained, no signs of wear. I did note the model unit we viewed had granite countertops and mine still had laminate ones. The tub was wonderful and it was very nice to have 2 separate sinks (even though I was alone I thought it was a great feature for a 1 bedroom unit). Balcony access only from living room.
Kitchen was well equipped although all I did was make coffee during my stay.
Internet was spotty at best and several times I either could not connect or lost connection. Wireless in the lobby worked well.
New gas grills were being installed the day I was there. Overall the grounds were very well kept, however there was some construction debris around the edges of the lake that could have been picked up (pieces of plastic, styrofoam, etc.)
All the pools were very warm (it was really chilly during my visit) and the main pool by the lobby could have used a cleaning (some faint green spots on the bottom and sides). Nothing that would have deterred me from swimming, just an observation.
Food at La Cantina pricey (almost $11 for a wrap and soda) and average at best. Never made it to the pizza place. Several local restaurants had delivery menus slipped under my door but never ordered anything.
Front desk staff was excellent. Concierge seemed a bit distant but I didn't have any extensive interaction with her. Bell staff were extremely helpful.
We also toured the 2 bedroom units (pics were blurry so didn't post them) and the INCREDIBLE 4 bedroom/4 bath presidential units. They are absolutely HUGE at 2500 square feet and you could throw a heck of a party on that big balcony!! That unit is pics 163 - 180.
Shuttle was pretty timely and it was a quick trip to EPCOT (which is the only park I visited during my short stay). On the return from the park back to the resort though I think they left a couple minutes early because we were there at 9:15 and no bus in sight.
This is the short version but I would give this property a 9 out of 10, especially for the location.
Any questions feel free to ask.

Thanks for posting the pics and info! Thinking of staying there in June.

 

[Sammy]

Can anyone tell me how far Universal's City Walk would be from Bonnet creek?

 

[mirlow]

Hi, we just booked a stay starting Sunday through Ken

I haven't had much time to read up on the resort since this was a very last minute trip. From what I have read it looks like we are going to have a great time.

We are planning on doing non park activities while stay at BC and then focus on just the parks when we move to the BWI on the 26th. I see that there is a shuttle to the parks, but I was sure if there was a shuttle to the water parks or DTD?

TIA

 

[snappy]

I just returned on March 8th. I have a copy of the shuttle schedule in front of me. There are not shuttles listed for the water parks. I am not sure if there are any added during busy times/summer. The schedule is clearly marked as applying from March 1-March 16, 2010.

There is a shuttle for Downtown Disney. Departure times from the clubhouse are at 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, 7:30 pm, 9:05 pm, and 11:45 pm. Return times from Downtown Disney are 5:40 pm, 7:40 pm, 9:15 pm and 12:00 am.

It appears there are two other shuttles, one that goes to MK and Epcot that leaves the club house on the hour and half hour starting at 8 am through 12:30 pm. Then there is a break and then there are shuttles also to MK and Epcot at 2:45 pm, 4:45 pm, 5:45 pm and 6:45 pm.

There are two last shuttles to MK ONLY at 7:45 p, and 8:45 pm.

The other shuttle departs the clubhouse on the quarter hour starting at 8:15 am through 12:15 pm and it goes to the Studios and Animal Kingdom.

Again there is an afternoon break in departures and then the shuttle resumes at 3:30 om, 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:30 pm.

Return times are many from MK, 12:15 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, 6 pm, 7 pm, 7:30 pm, 8 pm, 8:30 pm, 9 pm, 9:30 pm,10 pm, 10:30 pm, 11 pm, 11:30 pm. All above were for March 1-6 and 8-12.

They added one additional return for March 7, and March 13-16 at 12:30 am.

Epcot return times are 3:15 pm, 5:15 pm, 6:15 pm, 7:15 pm, 7:45 pm, 8:15 pm, 8:45 pm, 9:15 pm, 9:45 pm. All above were from March 1-4, March 6-11, and March 13-16.

They added one additional return for March 5th and March 12th- 10:15 pm.

Animal Kingdon return times are 4 pm and 6 pm on March 1,2, 4-9, 11 and 12th, with additional returns at 7 pm and 8 pm on March 3, 10, 13, and 16th.

Studios return times are 4:15 pm. 6:15 pm, 7:15 pm, 8:15 pm, 9 pm on March 2-7, and 9-14th, with additional returns of 9:40 pm and 10:45 pm on March 1, 8, 15, and 16.

I will say I have not used the shuttles as we always rent a car. I do think it is a nice feature if you have teens or adults in your party that want to come and go at a different time or to a different park than whoever is driving the car.

Obviously, you have to keep the schedule on your person to know the return times. It is complicated during this time of year.

I am sure the departure and return times are extended during spring break and summer when WDW park closures are later.

Hope that is helpful.

I would call the resort when it gets closer to your trip and ask them to fax you a shuttle schedule for your dates. I have found the folks at the activities desk to be more than accommodating. They even printed off my Southwest boarding pass for me when I could not get the printer connected to one of the computers in the computer room to work.

 

[garmich]

Can anyone tell me how far Universal's City Walk would be from Bonnet creek?

According to Google Maps, it's 11.6 miles from Bonnet Creek to Universal Studios. By car, it would take about 17 minutes to get to the parking lot by car via I-4.