Why is GF the most expensive?

[ufgator]

DH and I want to definitely want to stay there sometime. I know it's on the monorail and we've visited the resort before and eaten at Narcoossee's. I just wanted to know from those who have stayed what makes it the most expensive resort. And if you think it's worth it. Thanks for any thoughts.

 

[Laurajean1014]

I haven't stayed there but visited often. It's a good question and should be answered by a frequent guest......, so?

 

[dkrause716]

We stayed there last year and it was very nice. Of course it is lovely being on the monorail and our room was spacious, large and clean. Later in the year we stayed at the BC and I didn' really find any difference in room size, level of service etc. Of course, we greatly preferred the pool at the BC and the location can't be beat. So I guess I'm saying I don't get it....

 

[BunnieGene]

The Grand "Guest Requests Are Never Denied" Floridian, in my opinion, has more amenities and better service than the CR and Poly.Initially the GF had in-room mini-bars, robes and more toiletries than the other two...as well as overall nicer restaurants and the spa. I haven't stayed at the Poly in several years, and I understand that it has been/is being refurbished (as is CR) and that may also be a reason that the GF is more expensive...it's alot newer.
It doesn't appeal to everybody, but those of us who love it...well, we love it Some feel that it is too snooty (for lack of a better word), but I'm a pretty simple/casual person and have never felt out of place there. I find it beautiful and relaxing, not to mention the easy access to MK, my favorite park.

 

[Laurajean1014]

It must be the amendities that you receive by being a guest. The restaurants are great, as well. As for closeness. Nothing can beat that 5 minute walk from CR to MK.

I'm not against GF, I just don't think we'll be staying there (I'm DVC and the point system for this resort is not beneficial).

 

[DebbieB]

I've stayed there twice (1994 & 1999) and I think the standard rooms are the nicest on property. I always feel like the old "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" when walking into the lobby (OK, I'm dating myself now!). I was lucky to get good rates the 2 times I stayed. I think the rack rates are crazy. I'm a DVC member now so it doesn't even tempt me, a DVC 1 bedroom is much better!

 

[AmyBWV99]

Service. We stayed there for 10 nights last week. The service was amazing. They did anything for the guests. Plus, it's an atmosphere all it's own. It just feels very, very posh.

 

[java]

Well what is funny about this is that we normally stay at the BC but for some reason this year it was only $100 cheaper for the entire week of our stay at the GF so we are upping ourselves to the GF. I'll be there on Saturday and can't wait. We have not stayed here in 10 years and I am anxious to see what has changed. I just remember feeling like I was at a spa the entire stay. As exhausting as Disney can be I never felt that way at the GF. I'll let you know how it is with children in tow. I hope it is as special as it was then.

 

[TammiMcMan]

We first stayed here many years ago and it continues to be my favorite. I think like the other Disney resorts, it just has a loyal fan base. The way the buildings are laid out and even though it's close to the MK, it still has a very private, resort feel to it. Nearly all the rooms have balconies and most of those are large, private balconies. Every room has a nice view, you won't end up overlooking a parking lot or convention roof here. Larry, the GF greeter, in his cream colored costume wishing you a Grand Day. The bell staff and valet greeting you by name when you pull up for the first time. Room service comes in with white linens, fine china, heavy silverware, a flower on the table. Themed amenities in the room, where I believe other resorts use the "Mickey" logo items. It's a lot of little things that just add up to a wonderful theme and feel.

 

[triplefigs]

Well what is funny about this is that we normally stay at the BC but for some reason this year it was only $100 cheaper for the entire week of our stay at the GF so we are upping ourselves to the GF. I'll be there on Saturday and can't wait. We have not stayed here in 10 years and I am anxious to see what has changed. I just remember feeling like I was at a spa the entire stay. As exhausting as Disney can be I never felt that way at the GF. I'll let you know how it is with children in tow. I hope it is as special as it was then.

Please report when you get home! We're taking our triplets for the first time in December. We visited the GF when we were on our honeymoon at the Poly 10 years ago. I too fell in love with it immediately!

Have a magical trip!

 

[Lollipop Mom]

It is the only 5-diamond resort in central Florida and it has been named as one of the top 100 resorts in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveller.

 

[BunnieGene]

Please report when you get home! We're taking our triplets for the first time in December. We visited the GF when we were on our honeymoon at the Poly 10 years ago. I too fell in love with it immediately!

Have a magical trip!

We were at the Poly on our honeymoon 9 years ago, and that's also when I fell in love with the GF...couldn't wait to stay there, and have never been disappointed when I have been able to do so...you will love it.

 

[Gramgwen]

I stayed there a very long time ago when they first opened. It was wonderful. I will never forget it. Wonderful service, beautiful rooms, spectacular!

 

[ducklite]

It is the only 5-diamond resort in central Florida and it has been named as one of the top 100 resorts in the world by readers of Conde Nast Traveller.

Since when is the resort five diamond? V&A's has been several times (although I understand it slipped to four this year) but the resort itself has never been five diamond to my knowledge.

In all honesty, we've stayed there twice, and it's very nice, the rooms are spacious and attractively furnished. The service has been mixed. The first time it was beyond deplorable. The second time it was very nice, although I've stayed at true five diamond resorts with much finer service and amenities.

Anne

Anne

 

[Lewisc]

BINGO.

Even AAA, who's is generous with their ratings, only rates the GF 4 diamonds. Disney has done a good job giving guests the impression that the GF is a much higher rated property than it is. AFAIK the Hyatt Grand Cypress was the only Orlando hotel to have been rated 5*. Disney guests are unique in thinking a food court belongs in a 5* hotel.

I'd rate the PBH hotel over the GF.

Since when is the resort five diamond? V&A's has been several times (although I understand it slipped to four this year) but the resort itself has never been five diamond to my knowledge.

In all honesty, we've stayed there twice, and it's very nice, the rooms are spacious and attractively furnished. The service has been mixed. The first time it was beyond deplorable. The second time it was very nice, although I've stayed at true five diamond resorts with much finer service and amenities.

Anne

Anne

 

[swilphil]

It's much more elegant and upscale than the other WDW deluxes. They are also able to get people to pay those prices, so they will continue charging them. I wonder if after the CR renovation if their prices will go up for a Tower room, MK view, especially the concierage.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

It's much more elegant and upscale than the other WDW deluxes. They are also able to get people to pay those prices, so they will continue charging them. I wonder if after the CR renovation if their prices will go up for a Tower room, MK view, especially the concierage.

I am thinking yes they are going to go up i can only imagine

 

[PrincessCandaceMarie]

I think its the service and the feeling you get when you're there...its hard to explain if you've never been there before..but its a great place to stay!

 

[DVCconvert]

Why is GF the most expensive?

Frankly, I think it's the "high brow" effect. Disney has billed the GF as their "flagship" and provide services and preceptions of quality that they do not try as hard to project at any of their other resorts. I will say though, that a casual read of posts concerning the quality of concierge services, It's my opinion that the GF is hardly ever #1. It seems to me that you hear a great deal more positive feedback on concerige at YC/BC -BWI -Poly & AKL than you ever do about GF.

 

[Shannon's Mom]

My DH and DD6 have stayed at the GF 5 years in a row. We absolutely love it. We have stayed in numerous hotels around the world, including the Waldorf Astoria in NY, and none compare to the GF.
The atmosphere is so relaxing. You feel like you are being pampered from the minute you arrive. Service has always been excellent. You can really escape from the busy atmosphere of the parks, yet there is plenty to do and very close to MK. The two swimming pools are great, especially the 24 hour one - great for a dip after the parks, even at one o'clock in the morning.
I count down the weeks until I return, from the minute I leave it.

Food is also great, with plenty of choices.