Treatment of DVC members

[Ksp]

KSP- Good luck with your check in. We check in the same day but at BW.
I see your from NJ. Do you fly from PHL?
Were 40 miles west of PHL.

We do fly from PHL, although we're planning to try Atlantic City one of these times. My personal favorite is taking the Auto Train. That's what we're doing this trip. Maybe we'll see you on the boardwalk

 

[ColoradoBelle1]

Simba's Mom: I'm afraid that your post about the CMS not telling us the truth consistently is probably true. Isn't that sad. What we have then, is an accountability problem. Whether it is because the CM is underpaid or conflict avoidant and passive aggressive or just hates DVC members is only an explanation and not an excuse for any CM to lie.

I feel that I can most often make lemonade when handed lemons especially when someone nice hands me the lemons or when I have advance notice that lemons are coming! I thought that since Epcotkids received the 'room ready' info from Carlie that I would do my part in 'helping to get my requests without creating any problems' by spending the first night off property so that I could check in early. (And I hope that when I do this I'm not told that today the rooms are 'preassigned')

I looked up the disability act that Chris (Greysword) provided a link to. It seems that as of 1994, a hotel developer needs to put in 1 wheelchair access shower for every 100 rooms over 400. Doesn't this mean that BWV would need 4 wheelchair access rooms and that BCV would need even less ? I think Disney might put in some extra because they seem exemplary in their willingness to accommodate disabilities...and for that I praise them!!!!.....but how many more? At any given time, I have a difficult time believing that there aren't at the very least 4 families per resort that really NEED the handicap room at BWV. This confuses me....I am going to check over on the disability board...Is it possible that people who NEED a handicap room arent' getting them while someone who doesn't want a handicap room is?????

To those who are going to Disney soon: May all your dreams come true whether it be a fast pass to Space Mountain, a healthy room, a great meal or a kiss from Cinderella! You deserve a wonderful vacation! PIXIE DUST( or 'picky' dust) I think you are great and appreciate your posts and your ideas.

To the 3 people who find the rest of us horrid, naughty ,unthankful ingrates without any hearts or empathy for the 150,000 people who died in a tsunami related incident because we are spending our energy on trying to get a nonsmoking room so our kids don't get sick...there is a vacancy left since Mother Teresa died...except wait, Mom Teresa taught us not to judge anyone and you have judged us for being more picky than you.

To the other 50 or so of us: we shouldn't feel a need to justify our 'pickiness'. We aren't naughty nor unkind nor unempathetic. We are trying to make Disney a better place for all of us. Now if we can just align our vaca plans with the 3 saints...then if 3 of us get a smoking, handicapped LAST room at the inn...if we pay the saints' $25.00 change room fee, they will be happy to give us their room for which we will be very thankful and appreciative. WINWIN.

Colorado Belle

 

[Sherri]

Simba's Mom or Shan did you ever call customer relations about this all? I think I might be able to adjust if I had to, but that is down right disrespectful that someone would outright lie. Do they think that will be the end of the conversation? Is this what they are taught?

 

[Sherri]

KSP- Actaully we drive sometimes. This time we are flying. But would love to try the auto train sometime. Is that from 30th street station in Center City?

 

[lenshanem]

Yes, Sherri. I did contact member services. It was at that point they went back in and themselves added needs nonsmoking due to medical reasons and requests tub to all my then existing ressies. I was told someone else would be contacting me, but didn't hear anything else. This was back in October. Keep in mind our recent trip we were preassigned to a smoking room when we arrived despite what MS had added to our ressie. It didn't matter though because my daughter wasn't with us (This was a wedding anniversary trip.) so there was no need to get upset, they were able to move us to a nonsmoking studio regardless and it was a great room. But this experience added to my worries for spring break with my daughter. I really don't care about our view or location. I just want very simple, reasonable requests I believe! I can't believe how I got attacked on that other thread! A tub is nice and something I excepted when I joined DVC (I was surprised to find out that a tub is not a given.), but it is not a necessity like nonsmoking. If we get to OKW next month and can't get a nonsmoking I think I will lie down in the lobby and cry! I really won't know what to do. Try to find a room elsewhere during spring break?!?

 

[sarhenty]

But maybe I'm just in that group of people who, when handed lemons, finds a salt shaker and a bottle of tequilla.

-Joe

Don't you know if your handed TOO many lemons it can make you puke or spaz out? !?!?!??!

Sorry, couldn't help myself....

 

[Ksp]

KSP- Actaully we drive sometimes. This time we are flying. But would love to try the auto train sometime. Is that from 30th street station in Center City?

Sherri, sometimes we drive the whole way down too, but DH is no longer in the "road trip" frame of mind, so that's why we fly/take the train down.
We catch the auto train in Lorton, VA - that's the only spot to get it. The drive from NJ takes us 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. (more if it's a high traffic time) We've taken the Silver service train down, too...from Trenton, tho'. It's closer for us.
Have a great flight!!

 

[JodyTG]

If DVD had just taken a clue from the cruise industry they would have made the HA studios larger to make up for the lost space. When my DH and I took a cruise a few years ago, the room next to ours what HA and it was HUGE....at the same price. They give you so much more space that to book them you have to call a special number and show proof of need.

Wouldn't this have solved all the problems? Just a little more space to put in a tub and a separate shower...a longer cabinet by the sink to allow the microwave to fit as well as a food prep area...a larger closet...oh, and a cabinet in the bathroom for toiletries and such.

We're just starting the process to buy into DVC and will be calling our sales rep with lots and lots of questions very soon.

 

[TNMom]

Inferior is in the eye of the beholder..... And by saying this it appears that you behold those who need those rooms as "inferior".

In none of the posts prior to yours have I seen anyone say they think people who need HA rooms are inferior.

My theory is that the DVC CMs are flat out fed up with us whining about the rooms, views etc.... I also read the Resorts board and there is a LOT less whining about the room assignments there. And I have seen DVC members making a royal "you know what" of themselves over room assignments. The operative word is REQUEST. A request is just that not a right. If your requests are not met you have two choices, get over it or pay the change fee. If you can't live with the Request options may I suggest you click on the board sponsor. They will be glad to assist you in selling your membership thereby assuring you of no future inferior rooms.

Using your reasoning (which I don't agree with), those CMs who are fed up should find employment elsewhere.

With the attitudes I read on these boards at times I am embarrassed to admit I own at DVC.

To whom would you be embarrassed to admit you own at DVC?

I have had them at LOTS of hotels and never had any notice on the reservation. Of course I don't consider myself "above" this type of room.

No one said they considered himself "above" this type of room. When you order a meal (for which you are paying) in a restaurant how would you feel if the staff brought you something else that they chose because they were out of what you ordered? Shouldn't they ask what you would prefer if your choice is unavailable?

Both sides of the issue should be viewed to be fair.

 

[Doug7856]

Due to the strong feelings expressed here, I am a bit hesitant to post my comments, but here’s my $.02.

We have traveled all around the world in all kinds of accommodations. Disney accommodations tend to be at the top of the mid-range — a very nice Marriott. With DVC, we put up a long term investment that makes are per night stay very reasonably priced. In all of our travels, we have only received wheelchair accessible rooms at Walt Disney World. Until our son came along, we really did not mind. Now that we have a toddler, quite honestly I will mind if we receive a wheelchair accessible room as I do not feel that they are safe for inquisitive, developing minds (not to mention the tub issue).

With regard to counter space and storage — shame on Disney. People with disabilities deserve these features as much as anyone else. With those Imagineering minds, why couldn’t they have designed something that would work in rooms designed for people with disabilities?

These are just my humble opinions. I hope I have not offended anyone here on the DIS. It is surprising how heated these conversations can become.

 

[jmminarik]

Is it possible that people who NEED a handicap room arent' getting them while someone who doesn't want a handicap room is?????

This is always a possibility, but as you've said, Disney does a pretty good job of accomodating those with physical or mental disabilities and there does seem to be more handicapped rooms than required much of the time.

To the 3 people who find the rest of us horrid, naughty ,unthankful ingrates without any hearts or empathy for the 150,000 people who died in a tsunami related incident because we are spending our energy on trying to get a nonsmoking room so our kids don't get sick.

I'll assume you're including me in this statement since you refer to my rant.

I criticized people complaining about lack of counterspace and the minor inconveniences most ablebodies would have with a handicapped room. I've already stated numerous times I think the smoking/non rooms should be a guaranteed. Maybe you didn't read those posts.

If not being upset and thinking there are more things to worry about in life if I don't have enough counterspace for my cosmetics makes me a saint, well, so be it. I'm a recovering catholic so I didn't think I'd be in line for sainthood, but His Holiness is fairly liberal with giving out sainthoods.

I don't think you are horrid, et al. You may be, I don't know. I agree with most of your previous expressions in this thread. And I still think there's a bigger perspective most people need to keep.

Oh, I'd gladly change rooms at check-in, but not once we're unpacked. I'm laid back, but not altruistic.

-Joe

 

[MickeyCrazed]

This whole thread is starting to terrify me. I have been so excited about becoming DVC member, and so looking forward to my first trip 'home'' that this just depresses me.

Don't be depressed. I can remember feeling the same way when I was waiting for my first trip back in 2000.
The posts here scared the crap out of me...but my first trip as a DVC member was great!
Just remember that CMs are people too...
Some are having fantastic days, some not so magical. If you come across a grumpy CM, I'll bet it would make them smile if you say "Have a magical day!" I think we as guests are so focused on ourselves that we forget smile, and tell them what a great job they are doing!

As a DVC member, you are bound to have many magical experiences...Just don't let the few "not so positive ones" influence your vacation. You have a wonderful benefit over most WDW guests...You know that you will be back!

 

[athenna]

Don't be depressed. I can remember feeling the same way when I was waiting for my first trip back in 2000.
The posts here scared the crap out of me...but my first trip as a DVC member was great!
Just remember that CMs are people too...
Some are having fantastic days, some not so magical. If you come across a grumpy CM, I'll bet it would make them smile if you say "Have a magical day!" I think we as guests are so focused on ourselves that we forget smile, and tell them what a great job they are doing!

As a DVC member, you are bound to have many magical experiences...Just don't let the few "not so positive ones" influence your vacation. You have a wonderful benefit over most WDW guests...You know that you will be back!

Oh thank you so much! I appreciate the reassurance!
Thanks for the nice words!

 

[Sherri]

KSP- Have a safe trip. Glad tomorrow isn't the travel day, sounds like some pretty bad weather heading this way. I can't wait to be in sunny Florida.

 

[Sammie]

The to the new DVC members who these threads make nervous. I can give you some heartfelt advice and I truly say this with the best intent. If reading these boards bothers you that much, either avoid them or do like the rest of us do, take it all with a grain of salt.

You truly can not let any of this bother you. Regardless of what some would think otherwise, nothing posted on these forums, nothing I comment on, bothers me in the least when I arrive through the Disney gates.

Most of the time I have gotten the NS room we requested. A few times we have not. A few times I have gotten a NS room only to find it had been smoked in, I think this bothers me more than the other situation.

 

[Ksp]

Thanks, Sherri. Have a wonderful trip and enjoy yourself I can't wait to get away from the snowy weather for a little while.

If anyone else is heading down in the near future, hope you all have a wonderful
trip and enjoy the time.

Athenna -please don't misunderstand - many of the posts ( my first one included) here were in response to a specific remark/question, so they might seem more on the negative side. We've owned at DVC for just a few years now, and the benefits and wonderful memories far outway the few grumpy cm's that we have come across.

Doug7856 - your $.02 is always welcome, s'far as I'm concerned. Your right, sometimes it can be tough to post to a discussion, since you don't know how everyone will take your words.

I love my DVC and I wouldn't trade it - but I don't really enjoy the CM's at the front desk of BCV. (Some of them should wear Grumpy shirts)

 

[goofy4tink]

While I haven't read through all the previous posts, I thought I would add my experience last November. We checked into BWV early. Didn't expect a room to be ready. We went to a park, came back and our room was ready around 3:45ish. But, when we finally found our room, we really hated it. There was nothing horribly wrong with it, but we had to keep the drapes pulled in the master since the window opened onto the balcony of the room next/front of us. The living room balcony was so tiny, only one person could stand on it at a time and we had a view of a huge tree and the white construction tent. Yes, we could have lived with the room but thought we would ask, nicely, if something else was available. We did get another room, we paid no $25 room change fee. However, when we tried to get into the new room, we found it to be still occupied!!! The manager went back to this room with us, since he was incredulous that this could happen. Seems the occupants had decided to stay another night (it was THanksgiving day). So, back downstairs we went. The manager was wonderful. They did finally find us a room, over the quiet pool and the canal. They did give us a $100 credit on our room bill. We tried telling him that it just wasn't neccesary to do this, we were just happy to be in a room. I thought I had talked him into not putting it on, but there it was when we checked out. He also arranged for someone to drive us over to Chef Mickey's since we were really late getting into our room and had our T-day dinner PS for 5:30. I think the manager, Alfredo, went way out of his way to make us happy. I never encountered any CM's that were 'snippy' or in any way unpleasant to us during this 'ordeal'. I have to say though....I don't think I'll ask for a room change in the future!!! I'll just be happy with the room I have.

But a question regarding the handicapped rooms...what would happen if you arrived at WDW, and got a handicapped access. room and you had a child in an arm cast? That child would be hard pressed to use the shower only. My gf had this issue with her child, but not at WDW. SHe really needed a bathtub. Would they give you another room if this were the case?

 

[Sherri]

Yes, Sherri. I did contact member services. It was at that point they went back in and themselves added needs nonsmoking due to medical reasons and requests tub to all my then existing ressies. I was told someone else would be contacting me, but didn't hear anything else. This was back in October. Keep in mind our recent trip we were preassigned to a smoking room when we arrived despite what MS had added to our ressie. It didn't matter though because my daughter wasn't with us (This was a wedding anniversary trip.) so there was no need to get upset, they were able to move us to a nonsmoking studio regardless and it was a great room. But this experience added to my worries for spring break with my daughter. I really don't care about our view or location. I just want very simple, reasonable requests I believe! I can't believe how I got attacked on that other thread! A tub is nice and something I excepted when I joined DVC (I was surprised to find out that a tub is not a given.), but it is not a necessity like nonsmoking. If we get to OKW next month and can't get a nonsmoking I think I will lie down in the lobby and cry! I really won't know what to do. Try to find a room elsewhere during spring break?!?

Shan- I hope you get your room over springbreak.
I don't think it is an unreasonable request. I hate reading that some people make it out to be. I can honestly remember when my husband and I toured SSR this past summer, the studio did have a tub and nice vanity area for a few things. If the chances of us getting a unit like that were only slim of fifty fifty at best, then we should have been shown the other unit as far as i'm concerned. Isn't that like the old bait and switch? Maybe it does say (and I haven't read as many suggest we do in our contract about that somewhere in small pring) but I shouldn't have read every single word to find out there would be a good chance I could get something I wasn't shown. To me that makes me feel pretty bad. But maybe the sales reps don't know what goes on. So I will give him the benefit of the doubt, and yes now I will get out my contract and read it word by word. Seems like with fifteen inches of snow coming today I might have some time - lol

 

[CarolMN]

Shan- I hope you get your room over springbreak.
I don't think it is an unreasonable request. I hate reading that some people make it out to be. I can honestly remember when my husband and I toured SSR this past summer, the studio did have a tub and nice vanity area for a few things. If the chances of us getting a unit like that were only slim of fifty fifty at best, then we should have been shown the other unit as far as i'm concerned. Isn't that like the old bait and switch? Maybe it does say (and I haven't read as many suggest we do in our contract about that somewhere in small pring) but I shouldn't have read every single word to find out there would be a good chance I could get something I wasn't shown. To me that makes me feel pretty bad. But maybe the sales reps don't know what goes on. So I will give him the benefit of the doubt, and yes now I will get out my contract and read it word by word. Seems like with fifteen inches of snow coming today I might have some time - lol

I also hope Shan (and everyone else) get their requests.

FWIW, there really are only a small percentage of HA rooms - it isn't even CLOSE to 50%. More like 3 -4 % of the total. The chances of any one of us getting one is actually very small. I know that if you get one and don't want one, that doesn't matter.

My point is that it really isn't worth worrying about/making yourself crazy ahead of time. There's nothing you can do about room assignments now except request a tub on your reservation and then try to check in early in the day if you can.

I do not advise asking for a non-HA room on your reservation. It's way too easy for a busy human being to see only the HA part of the request and then give you what you don't want. I think that happens a lot. In sptie of what you may think by reading these boards, most people do not ask for non-HA, so the room assigners are not expecting to see the NON. Instead, ask for what you do want - a TUB.

Best wishes -

 

[d-r]

I don't think this is an issue exclusive to DVC as this thread makes it sound. You could get a handicapped room or a smoking room at any resort, at WDW or elsewhere.

Good point! Now maybe that you've said that, I don't have to be so bummed?????

In January we stayed at a regular, non-dvc hotel room at wilderness lodge. We had requested a king room, and got a handicapped room that only had a shower and no tub. We had a second room for my mother in law and aunt, so it worked out OK for us because they had a tub our one year old could bath in. I think we probably got it because it was the only king room near another room that was available, and it worked out OK for us. Actually, I kind of liked the room in some ways.