red712371 said:
Hi! We stayed at the GF last year and loved the beauty and how special they made us feel. We are now thinking of changing due to the construction during December. We usually like getting a quick snack in the afternoon and really liked the convenience of Gasparillas which will most likely be closed during our visit. We are thinking of switching to the Contemporary Bay Lake view. We need help deciding. We have never stayed at the Contemporary before. What's good and what's bad? I would love some help from you pros out there. It is just my husband and I and we love to feel pampered during our vacations.
Thanks!
While we stayed at the GF last December and its decorations were beautiful, I completely understand why you would want to switch. I definitely would not stay there as the construction stands now. If it is any consolation, though, it could be that most of the construction will be indoors by December, which would obviously be much less obtrusive. There is no way to know for sure, though, until the month draws closer. If your heart is truly set on the GF, I would just keep monitoring the construction's progress to determine how much of an annoyance it would actually be during your visit. It should also be mentioned that the bulk of the Christmas decor and activities are in the lobby (orchestra, gingerbread house, tree), which will not be affected at all by the construction. We also loved that each individual building mini lobby had its own tree and music playing-- plus the scent of cinnamon infused through the air vent. Very festive!
As for the CR, the main draw is its proximity to the MK and its tower views. If you plan to spend a great amount of time in your room taking advantage of the balcony, it would definitely be enjoyable. Personally, I would opt for a MK view over Bay Lake due to the view of the icicle lights on the castle, but this comes down to personal preference and budget. I would not stay at the CR again, though, without a MK view. It should also be noted that the CR is the least decorated deluxe during the holidays. There is a big illuminated Mickey wreath on the side of the tower, as well as a gingerbread display in the main concourse area, but these really aren't that special in comparison with the other deluxe resorts' decorations. For this reason, we did not consider the CR for our December stay.
If you are not going to stay at the GF, I would choose the WL. It is not on the monorail, but has boat access to the MK and is just as well decorated as the GF. In fact, a lot of DISers seem to like it better than the GF during the holidays due to its cozy, rustic Christmas decor (fireplace in the lobby, etc). It is also much less expensive, so you could splurge on a courtyard view room or even CL.
I say go with the GF or WL and switch to one or the other depending on how big of an issue construction seems to become at the GF moving forward. It is a beautiful time to visit WDW-- have fun!
. We had a great stay at the GF in December 2010, but the WL is our favorite at Christmas time 
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