What Should I Do??? (WL or Poly)

[Maukey]

Okay, a few months ago I booked a 7 day 6 night stay at the WL. Now, out of nowhere, I've started wondering about Poly and the Monorail. Originally, before I booked the WL, I had booked the CR with a MK View Rm, but due to a financial misfortune, I was forced to downgrade to the WL. Because of all of the great reviews, I was feeling really good about WL, but now, my heart's starting to lean toward Poly............well........the monorail more than anything. My wife and I have been thinking about just going ahead and splurging on this trip since it'll probably be our last trip to the World for a while, and our first stay at a Deluxe Resort. I just don't know if the $800 more is worth it just for the monorail. A part of me says yes because of my 1 yr old who'll be joining us, as well as, there's a chance that my wife could be 4 months pregnant then (we'll know that in about a week). The other part of me says no, just use part of that $800 and add a extra day to your stay at the Lodge. I know a Garden Wing Rm at the CR would be cheaper alternative than the Poly, but I no longer want to stay there because of all the construction. Plus, I always said that the first time I stay at the CR, it would be in a Tower MK View Rm. I'm confused .

What would you do? Would you:

A) Pay the $800 more to get the Poly and Monorail experience?
B) Take $400 of that $800 and add a 8th day to my stay at the Lodge?
C) Keep my 7 day stay at the Lodge and use the extra money on Cirque, gifts, etc?

All opinions and advice are welcomed and appreciated

P.S. There will also be our 14 and 9 yr old kids going with us. I just didn't factor them into the decision because they like both resort themes, and transportation doesn't really matter to them.

 

[pepe of ohio]

Been there done that...........We used to stay at the Poly when we got great AP rates or daughters CM discount but thats all in the past. We like the Poly, monorail is ok but when we stayed there we used the big ferry from the TTC and the small boat to get to the MK, seemed at times faster. don't get me wrong, Poly is a fantastic resort but we've stayed there over 5 times and just can't justify the price anymore.

Our new favorite resort is WL, last 5 plus stays have been there, we take the money saving from the Poly and stay longer at the Lodge. For us it's how long we can stay at Disney, the longer the better, more relaxing to see and do everything. Courtyard rooms have a great view of the pool and we spent alot of evenings sitting there drinking hot chocolate and watching nothing in general but loving it. Pool is greatly themed, seemed less people at WL pool then Poly. Roaring Fork, food court is great too, close and good choices. We like the boat to the MK but we were just there in September and used the bus too to the MK. We boat to FW, best buffet on property, Trails End and Crocketts Tavern has the best pizza too. Petting zoo, horse barn Settlement Trading Post, great place to spend some time. As for monorail, we take the boat to the CR and bingo, monorail service to shop around.

Everyone has their likes and dislikes but for the money, location is prime and we're MK people. We have done CR long long ago and the GF once. Gf not to our liking and as for now WL wins out over CR. Can't beat the AP code when they are issued and staying value season make for nice room rates over regular. either one you won't be sorry, its just about the money savings and where you'll feel comfortable. Enjoy !

 

[grimley1968]

Personally, I am usually able to get from MK faster via the boats, and sometimes it is faster to MK as well via the boats. Those monorail trains often get backed up. The boats don't.

But one thing the Poly has that WL can't touch is being within walking distance next door of the TTC. That way, you can catch a direct monorail to EPCOT.

All in all, we still prefer WL for theming.

 

[sandym718]

I haven't stayed at WL (just went to WCC for dinner), so I can't compare, but I can say that we chose to stay at the Poly for the transportation convenience. Our kids were 2 and 4 (almost 3 and almost 5) when we went this spring. I think it depends on how often you plan on going to Epcot - for touring and/or meals. Both WL and the Poly are convenient to MK, but not Epcot. You can walk to the TTC from the Poly and catch the monorail direct to Epcot, which is great! We came back to our room everyday for pool time/naps and found the monorail to be just invaluable. Plus, it's like a ride to the kids so there was no arguments at park leaving time, just let's go on the monorail!!

I also personally LOVED the theming/"feel" of the Poly. It was so relaxing and laid-back, I felt like we got a Disney vac. and a tropical vac. in one. The landscape is so lush, you can watch Wishes from the beach, etc. etc. I just fell in love with it and we will likely be going back Spring '09. The WL was very nice - but the "feel" of it didn't do much for me, probably b/c although we're not from the Northwest, we're in northeast OH and we have a lot of that "look" here. It seemed similar to the State Park lodges we stay at here within 1-3 hours of home - nice, but we can do that here.

I really don't think you can go wrong. It's a tough decision. If you think you'll want to go back everyday for your little one's nap and/or for your wife to take a break - I'd personally go with the Poly.

 

[DizneyNutz]

First of all we have not stayed at the Poly, but we are DVC owners at the WL because it is our favorite. It appears however that you are leaning towards the monorail, so I would say that you go with what you are wanting. If you don't you will be wondering the whole time what it would have been like to stay there instead and you wouldn't be as happy anywhere else. You didn't mention when you are going. The WL is awesome during the Christmas holidays. Hope you have a magical stay wherever you decide.

 

[CRZYINNJ]

Hi. While I've never stayed at the WL (hoping to in 2008), we chose to stay at the Poly last year when the kids were 3 and 1. We were there in early March and I have to say that the convenience of the monorail was a definate plus. We spent most of our time at the MK, so it was nice to be right on the monorail line. (We never experienced any delays with waiting for the monorail as a previous poster eluded to, but maybe it was the time of year we were there.) Our longest wait was for the bus to MGM which took maybe 10 min at the most.
I would definately recommend you bring a stroller as the resort is large and carrying little ones across the resort after a full day at the parks is not something you'd want to be doing.
In addition, from what I hear, the rooms are bigger at the Poly, which may be a plus if you're going to have a crib or pack n play in the room for your little one to sleep in.
One last thing is that the Poly has a 0 entry pool, so the kids can walk in and stand in the shallow end, not sure of what the WL has for the little ones.
Good luck with your decision.

 

[Maukey]

I'm sorry, I forgot, I'll be there Jan. 26 - Feb. 1 or 2 depending on which option I choose.

Thanks everyone for the responses, you've been very helpful. Some more are definitely welcomed.

 

[3for Me]

Have you considered a split stay?? That way you could do both and still save some money - you may need it if you have another little one on the way!

I am a new believer in the WL. Our first stay did not overwhelm me, but we tried again this summer thanks to a FABULOUS deal and we LOVED it! We are trying the Poly for the first time the night before our Wonder cruise which leaves the day after you depart!

Good luck with your choice!

 

[PlutoPony]

We have stayed at both and DS 12 much prefers the pool at the Poly. That may not factor much in your decision since you're going in January. WL feels a little more secluded, with its setting in the woods and the fact that you don't look out and see anything really "Disney". At the Poly, all you have to do is look out over the water and MK is right there, so you're always aware that you're at WDW. Just depends on which you prefer. We switched to WL to save $ also and weren't sorry, altho I'd go back to Poly in a heartbeat if I wanted to spend the additional coin. Like you, we had trouble justifying the cost.

 

[ccigliano]

I have stayed at the WL several times and as a result I am currently a DVC owner at the WLV. I have not stayed at the Poly so I can't compare the two resorts for you - all I can say is that even if the Poly were the same price I would still pick the lodge. There is something about the lodge that just grabs certain people and they won't stay anywhere else. Along with the AKL which was designed by the same architect, they are the best themed resorts on Disney property. The lobby is jaw dropping gorgeous. I love the warmth of the wood, the open ceiling, and the fireplaces. A bubbling pool in the lobby flows out to a stream, then waterfalls and into the main pool. The lake is relaxing and renting a boat to tool around in is alot of fun. I love to walk over to the campgrounds on the nature trail. I request a room overlooking the pool and the lake and usually get it so sitting on the balcony drinking my morning coffee is something I look forward too. The boat ride over to the Magic Kingdom is just as easy as the monorail. You can pick up the monorail to EPCOT from there - if you'd like or take a bus from the resort. While I try to avoid peak times, we never had a problem with any of the transportation. While I can't be sure if you one of those people that the WL will draw in - I wouldn't spend the extra $800 on this trip. I vote for an extra day at the lodge. But know that whatever resort you choose - you can't go wrong - it's Disney.

 

[hthrbells]

Polly!!!

 

[KMLOVESWDW]

That's a hard one!! Both places are great & I love the theming at WL. Something about that great lobby when you walk in. It's also nice that once you are in the lobby, you have access to everything without having to go outside. We just got back from the Poly & it was wonderful. I don't know if I would spend the extra only because of the time of year you are going. Don't know if you will be able to really use the pools or beaches at the time of year. I've never been in the winter so I can't say. If you are really wondering what it will be like to stay at the Poly then do it. Both resorts are the type that you want to be at the resort more than at the parks or doing outside activities. That's how I feel anyway. If I'm spending that kind of money on the resort, I want to spend the most time at the resort. Why does Disney have to have so many wonderful places to stay? Too make us second guess ourselves & drive us crazy? I have been very happy at both. If a view & transportation are an issue, I'de say do the Poly. If money is the issue, do WL. Good luck with your decision.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

I would go with the Polynesian because in general you get the better transportation with the Monorail. With the Magic Kingdom you can either take the Resort Monorail to the Magic Kingdom, or the boat which departs at the dock behind the Volcano pool. Don't forget about being able to walk to the TTC for getting the Monorail to Epcot.

 

[Eeyore's Pal]

I have never stayed at the Poly, so I can't compare for you. But I will tell you that WL is our favorite resort. As this member says:

There is something about the lodge that just grabs certain people and they won't stay anywhere else. Along with the AKL which was designed by the same architect, they are the best themed resorts on Disney property. The lobby is jaw dropping gorgeous. I love the warmth of the wood, the open ceiling, and the fireplaces. A bubbling pool in the lobby flows out to a stream, then waterfalls and into the main pool.

We can sit in the WL lobby for hours. It is magnificent and restful. Even the fun from the Whispering Canyon Cafe is background noise that fits the place.

So if I could get all this AND an extra day...no question. WL for me.

 

[Maukey]

We have stayed at both and DS 12 much prefers the pool at the Poly. That may not factor much in your decision since you're going in January. WL feels a little more secluded, with its setting in the woods and the fact that you don't look out and see anything really "Disney". At the Poly, all you have to do is look out over the water and MK is right there, so you're always aware that you're at WDW. Just depends on which you prefer. We switched to WL to save $ also and weren't sorry, altho I'd go back to Poly in a heartbeat if I wanted to spend the additional coin. Like you, we had trouble justifying the cost.

That's something else I've been thinking about as well. Decisions, Decisions.

 

[Maukey]

I have stayed at the WL several times and as a result I am currently a DVC owner at the WLV. I have not stayed at the Poly so I can't compare the two resorts for you - all I can say is that even if the Poly were the same price I would still pick the lodge. There is something about the lodge that just grabs certain people and they won't stay anywhere else. Along with the AKL which was designed by the same architect, they are the best themed resorts on Disney property. The lobby is jaw dropping gorgeous. I love the warmth of the wood, the open ceiling, and the fireplaces. A bubbling pool in the lobby flows out to a stream, then waterfalls and into the main pool. The lake is relaxing and renting a boat to tool around in is alot of fun. I love to walk over to the campgrounds on the nature trail. I request a room overlooking the pool and the lake and usually get it so sitting on the balcony drinking my morning coffee is something I look forward too. The boat ride over to the Magic Kingdom is just as easy as the monorail. You can pick up the monorail to EPCOT from there - if you'd like or take a bus from the resort. While I try to avoid peak times, we never had a problem with any of the transportation. While I can't be sure if you one of those people that the WL will draw in - I wouldn't spend the extra $800 on this trip. I vote for an extra day at the lodge. But know that whatever resort you choose - you can't go wrong - it's Disney.

You're makin it hard NOT to choose WL

 

[Maukey]

That's a hard one!! Both places are great & I love the theming at WL. Something about that great lobby when you walk in. It's also nice that once you are in the lobby, you have access to everything without having to go outside. We just got back from the Poly & it was wonderful. I don't know if I would spend the extra only because of the time of year you are going. Don't know if you will be able to really use the pools or beaches at the time of year. I've never been in the winter so I can't say. If you are really wondering what it will be like to stay at the Poly then do it. Both resorts are the type that you want to be at the resort more than at the parks or doing outside activities. That's how I feel anyway. If I'm spending that kind of money on the resort, I want to spend the most time at the resort. Why does Disney have to have so many wonderful places to stay? Too make us second guess ourselves & drive us crazy? I have been very happy at both. If a view & transportation are an issue, I'de say do the Poly. If money is the issue, do WL. Good luck with your decision.

That's another thing I'm struggling with. The Poly just seems like it will be better during the warmer months. WL just screams winter resort to me; although it's not guaranteed to be COLD. My wife also said she feels like since we're going during the winter, and it will be cool some, we should do the WL.

 

[grimley1968]

Yes, I agree the WL definitely has a more "cold weather" theme than the Poly. However, the pools are about equal. Poly has a better slide and 0-depth entry, but no kiddie pool and no hot tub. WL has 2 hot tubs at the feature pool, a kiddie pool and a current-flow area, but no 0-depth entry and the slide isn't quite as neat as the Poly's.

But it gets cold enough during much of the winter in Orlando that even heated pools are just going to be too cold.

Anyway, we're checking into WL in about 24 hours from now, so you can see that although it's a tough choice between the two, WL is our favorite.

 

[debaone]

I would go with the stay at Poly. If you have a 1yo and a pregnant wife I think you will be very happy with the monorail access and the close proximity to the TTC. Sometimes you get more value out of a relaxed vacation with fewer days than a longer one that is stressed. Sounds to me like this may be the case for you.

 

[SnowWitch]

Wl is by far our favorite resort when we travel in Dec, the Poly is the choice when my DH is not traveling with us. Managing boats and buses with a double stroller and 2 under 2.5 yrs is not fun without another adult. That being said, we enjoy both pools, although the WL has a great hot tub section, the Poly does not. The Poly has an area in the pool that substitutes instead. We prefer the dining at the Poly, but the WL has Artist Point. The rooms are quite a bit larger at the Poly. The courtyard view at the WL is one of my favorite views. As you can see its a toss up for me but in your position I would choose the WL and add a night.