Wouldn't it be nice if DVC offered it this way?

[Dean]

Originally posted by montessori
"What about a different direction. What about an expanded studio with a more functional minikitchen and more space with 2 beds (one way or another) but without a Jacuzzi and big bath? Something more along the lines of a true efficency for maybe 75% the points of a 1 BR." Dean

That's a good idea!

Or another possibility would be to have a 2 BR lockoff where you only had 2 rooms. Say you had basically 2 efficiencies stuck together, maybe each with a minikitchen but a little more than we have now. Maybe a small 2 place burner with a microconvection and regular kitchenware for 4. One "studio" with a King and Jacuzzi and a second "studio" with a Queen and a pullout (or Murphy bed or trundlge bed) and a more hotel type bath. It would sleep 6 or add a pullout or other type of bed to the King side to have it sleep 8.

There are obviously many variations we could go into but to keep it part of DVC the variations would need to be minimal. Still, I suspect the overall points would be high enough for us to feel like they were giving with one hand and taking away with another. I do feel that SS will need something extra to help it sell even though there are obviously some that really like that location. DVC has not proven they can sell a resort that has trouble standing on it's on from an overall desire standpoint but I suspect they have some tricks up their sleeve for SS. I suspect a lot of it will do with a great pool and the first resort with a GV at WDW since 1996. It will be interesting to see what else. I also wonder if they'll keep the sales center at BW but I suspect they will unless EP actually happens then I suspect we'll see it move to EP with a smaller extention at BW.

 

[MELSMICE]

When we stayed at OKW for the first time a few weeks ago I had honestly thought that all the rooms had "lock-offs". When we walked in I thought that there was going to be an extra entrance to the "studio" room with a door that locked from the inside & outside so you couldn't get into what would be the 1BR unit, unless you were using it as a 2BR unit.

I guess because that is how I remember it being showed when we took the tour many years ago I thought it would be this way. (Is that how it was showed or am I just imagining this?) I just remember walking through doors & the unit became larger everytime I walked through a new door.

Regardless, DVC has a master plan & are going to do what they feel is best. IMO (& I know some don't agree) there is a need for a unit that sleeps 5 or 6 - not just 4 & not as many as 8. I know that family structures change. I will not always need to get a 2BR for my family of 5. At some point it will just be DH & myself & then down the line my DD's will want to bring their families & we may need a grand villa. However, there will be someone out there that will need a unit that sleeps more than 4 but really won't need the extra space to sleep 8.

I certainly knew before joining DVC "what I was getting into". I do not have any complaints with their arrangements. I think they are the best. I just put an idea out there wondering what everyone else thought - now I know. Some agree, some disagree.

 

[Lisa F]

Originally posted by MELSMICE
Regardless, DVC has a master plan & are going to do what they feel is best. IMO (& I know some don't agree) there is a need for a unit that sleeps 5 or 6 - not just 4 & not as many as 8. I know that family structures change. I will not always need to get a 2BR for my family of 5. At some point it will just be DH & myself & then down the line my DD's will want to bring their families & we may need a grand villa. However, there will be someone out there that will need a unit that sleeps more than 4 but really won't need the extra space to sleep 8.

I think the point that many are making is that there already is something that is an "ideal size" within the context of the luxury accommodations that we bought into for a family of 5 or 6. Just because the maximum occupancy of a 2 bedroom unit is 8 people, I cannot imagine putting 8 people in a 2 bedroom. I think 6 is the maximum that I think fit comfortably in a 2 bedroom. If you have 6 people in any other hotel room on property, you would fit comfortably into 2 connecting hotel rooms with 4 kids in one room and the parents in the other. I'm not sure why anyone who has 4 kids feels put out having to get a room that has enough beds for their kids.

By that logic, Disney should also have to have a room that holds ONLY two people. My husband and I are sick of paying for extra people who never stay with us. Forget that paying for 2 extra people stuff, we are paying for DOUBLE the capacity!!! It should be the equivalent size of a one bedroom but not have the pull out sofa and should cost fewer points than a one bedroom that sleeps 4. I don't understand why we are always forced to pay for the capacity to sleep two more people when we don't need it. Disney is not being very fair to a family of 2 either.

That sounds pretty ridiculous, doesn't it? That's how the complaints about a 2 bedroom being too large for a family of 6 sound to me Of course, two people don't "need" the space of a one bedroom, but if I just wanted the bare minimum of what I need to sleep I would not have bought into DVC. I would probably stay offsite in a $20/night motel 6.

Lisa

 

[Richyams]

I think the point that many are making is that there already is something that is an "ideal size" within the context of the luxury accommodations that we bought into for a family of 5 or 6. Just because the maximum occupancy of a 2 bedroom unit is 8 people, I cannot imagine putting 8 people in a 2 bedroom. I think 6 is the maximum that I think fit comfortably in a 2 bedroom. If you have 6 people in any other hotel room on property, you would fit comfortably into 2 connecting hotel rooms with 4 kids in one room and the parents in the other. I'm not sure why anyone who has 4 kids feels put out having to get a room that has enough beds for their kids.

By that logic, Disney should also have to have a room that holds ONLY two people. My husband and I are sick of paying for an extra two people that never stay with us. It should be the equivalent size of a one bedroom but not have the pull out sofa and should cost fewer points than a one bedroom that sleeps 4. I don't understand why we are always forced to pay for the capacity to sleep two more people when we don't need it. Disney is not being very fair to a family of 2 either.

That sounds pretty ridiculous, doesn't it? That's how the complaints about a 2 bedroom being too large for a family of 6 sound to me Of course, two people don't "need" the space of a one bedroom, but if I just wanted the bare minimum of what I need to sleep I would not have bought into DVC. I would probably stay offsite in a $20/night motel 6.

Every word, every nuance, you perfectly expressed my feelings.

A two bedroom is for six, they do let you stuff in eight, but it is for six.

I really like the anology of two people being treated unfairly because they always need to pay for the capacity of four.

 

[Dean]

I have the pefect solution, LOL. Change the Maximum occupancy of the units where the studios sleep 2 and the 2 BR only sleep 6 then everything will fit perfectly.

 

[Richyams]

Then the pullouts will only be used to solve that often heard problem of kids that won't share a bed. Brilliance, sheer brilliance once again.

They sould have Dean running things.

 

[PamOKW]

There will never be an ideal situation for everyone. Yes, a family of 5 or 6 should move up to a two-bedroom which technically could hold 8. Thinking of it that way may cause some annoyance. However, using the same reasoning, why should a family of 10 need to book a GV? After all, the 2 bedroom sleeps 8 and they are only 2 over as well.

The only way to keep the annoyance factor down would be to take the villas up in increments of 1. That would serve little purpose except to possibly make people feel better.

We can play "what if" all we like and that may give folks enjoyment. However, we have to deal with "what is" and that is the way that DVC was set-up and sold.

 

[AEN]

While debate is healthy, that is where this discussion now belongs.

I have to say, if I had read this post before buying, I probably would have had serious leanings not to buy. Not because of the accomodation issues, more because of the rude (so I feel) comments. I really get disappointed with the derogatory comments about All Stars, Motel 6, etc. Some of us grow up from there and we take offense to such. I don't think that any of the DVC owners with 5/6 in a family are trying to trash a room.

What I thought was an interesting topic has seriously deteriorated.

I can understand the desire to have the King bed in the "master" bedroom. I don't think it is detrimental to allow up to 6 over all. Look at the size of the one bedroom compared to the "deluxe" resorts, which hold 5. The one bedroom is much more spacious, therefore accomodating 6.

I know I am opening up myself to some bad comments. Let's move this to the Debate board or freeze it.

Just my thoughts.

Sorry for rambling.

 

[Richyams]

I just have to ask, why are you so against getting a two bedroom unit for six?

 

[Maistre Gracey]

Again, some of this is just my opinion (although some is fact). I respect all the different viewpoints here, so here goes mine:

Originally posted by AEN
While debate is healthy, that is where this discussion now belongs......(snip).....What I thought was an interesting topic has seriously deteriorated.

Personally, I don't see where this thread is as derogatory as many here think. For the MOST part, it seems to be well thought out disscusion.

Originally posted by AEN
I have to say, if I had read this post before buying, I probably would have had serious leanings not to buy. Not because of the accomodation issues, more because of the rude (so I feel) comments.

WOW!!! These are just feelings/opinions being expressed. I truly hope that a few comments would not change your mind about buying a lifetime of quality vacations with your family....but, that is your right.

Originally posted by AEN
I really get disappointed with the derogatory comments about All Stars, Motel 6, etc. Some of us grow up from there and we take offense to such.

I have never read derogatory comments about these hotels/resorts from any DVC member in this forum. I have, on rare occasion, seen derogatory remarks on other DIS forums. I do not like that either.

Originally posted by AEN
I don't think that any of the DVC owners with 5/6 in a family are trying to trash a room.

I don't either. The fact still remains that it will be extra wear and tear that we will pay for through our dues.

Originally posted by AEN
I don't think it is detrimental to allow up to 6 over all. Look at the size of the one bedroom compared to the "deluxe" resorts, which hold 5. The one bedroom is much more spacious, therefore accomodating 6.

Not all rooms, at all deluxes accommodate five people.
The sleeping area in a 1br is not "much more spacious" than the sleeping area in a deluxe.

Originally posted by AEN
I know I am opening up myself to some bad comments. Let's move this to the Debate board or freeze it.

Just my thoughts.

Sorry for rambling.

No bad comments from me!!! I appreciate your viewpoints, and respect that you have your own opinions....even if they differ from mine.

Have fun, and enjoy your DVC!

 

[AEN]

Richyams,

If you are asking me, I am so not against a two bedroom unit. But it seems that some people are used to king beds and cannot use other. Vacation is there to treat yourself and if they use a king at home, it seems less treating to use smaller. I have a queen at home and very often travel where I am in a full. We visit a dude ranch that has a full. I will continue going to the dude ranch regardless of the bed size. I am there for the atmosphere, not just the bed. But, that is me. Some people are not as accepting.

Maistre,

Wow, I wish news papers would quote me so exactly .

I sat on my couch last night and read through some of the early posts and I found some comments to be poor. Like they are looking down at the people who desire the thought proposed. That is why other posters commented that we are acting "snobbish" and "elitists". Heck, if other people have made the comment, why does mine seem so far fetched. Fortunately, I have friends who are members and their tone is a lot less sharp than some posters. My feeling is, treat the other vacationers good (provided they are not ruining the place or my stay), because they may one day be your neighbor/fellow member. I was an All Starer. I just never realized that some of the posters thought my kind was so beneath them.

That is why I think this thread has seen its time.

Again just my thougts.

 

[Lisa F]

Originally posted by AEN
I have to say, if I had read this post before buying, I probably would have had serious leanings not to buy. Not because of the accomodation issues, more because of the rude (so I feel) comments. I really get disappointed with the derogatory comments about All Stars, Motel 6, etc. Some of us grow up from there and we take offense to such. I don't think that any of the DVC owners with 5/6 in a family are trying to trash a room.

Whoa! How does the phrase "if I just wanted the bare minimum of what I need to sleep I would not have bought into DVC. I would probably stay offsite in a $20/night motel 6." translate to trashing motel 6? I don't think there is anyone who can argue that Motel 6 is a luxury resort. They are (most of the time) a clean and adequate place to spend the night and nothing more. I bought into DVC to have a luxury resort experience and because motel 6 does not deliver that does not mean I am trashing it, it just means that it is different. IF I were the type of person who just wants a bed to rest my head on while on vacation I can tell you that I personally would stay in a motel 6 or the equivalent cheapest place I could find off property rather than paying a premium for atmosphere, amenities and location. I'm not saying that I'm better than anyone who stays at motel 6, just that my desires when on vacation are not compatible with what motel 6 offers and I am willing to pay for the upgrade to have them met.

Please do not make assumptions about who comes from where. I still remember my one and only trip to WDW as a child. My parents took out a loan to be able to afford to take us. We stayed in some no name hotel in kissimmee that made a motel 6 look luxurious. We had an absolutely wonderful time, spent every minute in the parks and had a blast. My vacations have changed a lot since then. Why should I apologize for that?

Lisa

 

[Sharper]

My interest in a change in the present one-bedroom setup is that you literally have ONE BED. We have four in our family, but I feel like we should have a two-bedroom because even though our kids (bless them) have not really complained, sleeping on a pullout sofa is NOT comfortable! My guilt will make me spend the extra points for a two-bedroom unit for the four of us, to allow all of the members of even our smaller family to sleep on a bed. My best friend has one child and she is already reaching that same conclusion. A two-bedroom for three people .

Seems a bit much, hence the appeal of two beds in a one-bedroom. It would be a room assignment headache for existing resorts, but perhaps a new resort would make it their standard for those would will definitely be interested. There are times we might prefer the kingsize, others where we would choose a resort with two beds in something smaller than a two-bedroom.

 

[RoutemanDan]

Originally posted by Lisa F
--Snip--

Please do not make assumptions about who comes from where. I still remember my one and only trip to WDW as a child. My parents took out a loan to be able to afford to take us. We stayed in some no name hotel in kissimmee that made a motel 6 look luxurious. We had an absolutely wonderful time, spent every minute in the parks and had a blast. My vacations have changed a lot since then. Why should I apologize for that?

Lisa

Great post Lisa!

No need to apologize at all.

 

[sgtdisney]

Here is another vote for leaving the room layout as it is currently. When we bought into the DVC we knew what the layout was and really liked the set up.. I have never thought of putting 4 in a one bedroom, when we have 3 or more people going we have always used a 2 bedroom.. I guess we had just planned on that from the start... I have even travelled with my MIL (she has been there a few times with us now) and she has told me she doesn't mind the couch, 'we can save points'.. I never let her do that. I just knew buying in, that we would be using a 2 bedroom most of the time. It just works out best for us..

 

[AEN]

Again, I think this discussion has done its time.

It has deteriorated to a level this board is not intended for.

First of all, Lisa F., the comment on Motel 6 did not come from you. So you might want to calm down. I don't know how to paste quotes.

I make no assumptions where people came from, are currently in, or are going to. That is why I do not make negative references about All Stars, etc. They all serve their purpose, and I think that 90% of the people who go to those resorts, including myself, are hard working, money conscientious individuals and when I hear people say that 5/6 in a one bedroom sounds a little like Motel 6, or other comments that I don't care to regergitate, just comes across wrong.

The root of the issue is 5/6 in a room is insignificant. DVD wants to make more money. Let's call a spade a spade. It is not for king size beds. It's not for substantial wear and tear. It's purely to make money. Bottom line. I've audited hotels and I've seen damage done by only 2, 3 and 4 people.

On the converse, people who are try to put 5/6 in a one bedroom are trying to save money. Heck, most of us brought into DVC to save money over the long, from all our vacations.

DVD is trying to make money, DVC'ers are trying to save money. Where is the happy median? I think that is what this thread was really supposed to address. Not what level a 5/6 person room will sink to. Those comments should be on the Debate board, where I first heard them in August or September.

That is just how I feel. I am not trying to offend anybody.

I too remember my first trips to WDW when my parents took a loan and I pushed my father around in a wheelchair (he had M.S.). I am proud as to where I've been, where I am, and where I hope to be.

 

[Sharper]

At least you guys got to go to WDW when you were a kid. I was nine before we ever went on any vacation and do not make me tell you the story of the dive we stayed at across the street from the beach......sorry, I digress.

Well, no one slept on a pullout sofa, though

 

[WDWguru]

Lisa, I think we were separated at birth! Two excellent, articulate and eloquent posts that I wish I'd made myself. (Especially the two-person comparison.) Bravo!

 

[RobDoc]

This has begun to drift far off-topic for this thread and from DVC. The general discussion has been very appropriate and well confronted from all sides.

Further personal comments will be removed if they are off-topic. Feel free to address those personal issues by email or PM.

For those who keep suggesting a discussion on the Debate Board- please feel free to start one there and make further comment in that environment.

Enjoy!

 

[Lisa P.]

The root of the issue is 5/6 in a room is insignificant. DVD wants to make more money. Let's call a spade a spade. It is not for king size beds. It's not for substantial wear and tear. It's purely to make money. Bottom line.

I agree completely. They've found a successful arrangement which sells well and they will doubtful see any need to mess with it. Having a family of 5, this mattered to us though. We had been previously used to vacationing in a single hotel room with a single bath. So a 1BR would have suited us just fine. But that's simply not the way DVC is set up. FWIW, very few timeshares are.

Just to offer a different perspective, we own points with Fairfield. The entire reservation process is quite different from DVC. Because of this, they are able to accommodate the reservations for an enormous variety:

Some of the original resorts may only offer one unit size. Most newer ones offer everything from studios on up to 4BR penthouses - up to 6 different floorplans per resort - 20 different room types in the system, not counting all the "point saver" rooms w/ limited views! These room types vary according to their floorplans, occupancy limits and basic or luxury features.

Here's why DVC is unlikely to adopt anything like this:
When booking a Fairfield reservation, the room is usually assigned by owner services, based on availability as seen on their computer screen. So I know the floorplan when I accept the reservation. I'm even able to request certain rooms/floors, etc. I've been told that the first room number(s) suggested by the computer will be those that are vacated on the very day we are seeking check-in. This minimizes single night vacancies. The resorts do still retain the right to make changes, substituting the exact same size/type unit or better. Overall though, it works well with very few changes made at the resorts. It lends itself to be first-come, first served, in requests being accommodated.

By contrast, when booking a DVC reservation, MS only knows whether there is vacancy or not, at a particular unit size. The resort later sorts through requests and determines room assignments during the week of check-in. This is more labor-intensive. The more variables in room options at a DVC resort (like BWV w/ views), the more complex this job becomes. So unless DVC is planning a major overhaul of their computer systems, they are not likely to embrace another room-style option. JMHO - Sorry so wordy.