Its a shame that so many rules have to be constantly put in place, smoking, strollers, scooters, etc. But its also a shame that many people will bend, stretch or outright blatantly break the rules. Therefore, even non-enforceable rules are in place. Strollers can be halted at the gates, scooters, wheelchairs, etc., if not in compliance, can be stopped.
Smoking, in general is one of those, I feel, will not be enforced. One, not all will get the memo, maybe will not be able to read the no smoking policy if from another country, or worse, will bend, or again, blatantly break the rule. We may find ourselves walking through more of the smoke trails than before.
WDW CMs, seeing them in action, most will not enforce the rule, as to not cause a scene. I am not bashing smokers, but I have to deal with it daily at my workplace. I have to be the "bad guy" at work as I have to enforce the rule, one I didn't make. The retirement community we do all our work set the zero tolerance rule in place a few years back. Personally I take no issue with it. But its construction, so, lots of smokers in the industry. I have to post signs on doors, but sneaking still takes place.
The crappy thing is, the retirement community folks (workers)slip around on their golf carts, hide in trees, sneaking smoke breaks. My guys see it, if they can do it why not me. I have to remind them gently, not my rule, but was told point blank, warn them, if repeated, fire or get them off property for good, and finally my whole company would be gone if I can't enforce it. And it has nothing to do with the health and wellness of employees or residents. Money saved on insurance policy, and that was admitted to me by a higher up.
I guess what Im getting at is this may have more to do with WDW saving on their insurance than the welfare of their clients. Maybe Im off base.
Strollers, though I feel bad for the parents, don't have a strong feel one way or other.
MidnightParade! Always happy to have new Lodge lovers join us! I can tell you love the Lodge just based on your comment, "dream come true resort." We all feel like that here. I can't fully answer your questions, but I'll share what little I know. As far as I know, the room checks are still a thing. We were there three weeks ago, and we had them every day, though we were out before they came in. We always knew they'd been in because our trash was emptied. Technically, we were staying at Copper Creek, but I assume the same holds true for VWL. As for the safes, I'm afraid I don't know the answer. Copper Creek safes are definitely digital, though. Again, welcome, and hopefully someone will come along with more definitive answers soon!
