In a quandry over which hotel

[MouseFaninQueue]

My wife and I haven't been to WDW since 1997 when we got engaged there. We are planning on going back this October/November - but this time we will be taking our two daughter's (ages 4 and 1 at time of travel). As well, my sister (going on 29 for the second time) will be joining us. So that's 3 adults 1 child and 1 infant in a crib.

Back in 1997 we stayed at the All Star Music resort. We had a good time but for us the resort wasn't much more than a bed to sleep in for the few hours of sleep we did get. However, we were kind of turned off by the "cattle-trailers" used to transport guests from the parks to the hotel due to the sheer number of people.

Now we are going back and are trying to decide on a hotel. We are unsure if the kids will have a better at the Pop Century or if we should upgrade to one of the Moderate rooms. We were looking at Port Orleans Riverside but want something that will be relaxing yet fun with the kids. Big thing will be space in the hotel room with 3 adults and a crib.

As we live in the middle of BC getting to WDW isn't something we do all that often so would like to make sure this trip is worth it. We are also planning on doing a 4 night cruise after our 8 days in WDW. I'm just hoping some of you regulars to WDW can give some ideas or suggestions on which hotel will fit for my group. Thnx in advance!!

[Mickeymac]

Heartily recommend stepping up to a moderate. The kids won't care - all they want is a pool to play in and to never have to sleep - but for the adults, you'll need the peace of mind. Plus, after a while, it just gets tough at the Values when trying to get some downtime. It sounds as though although you're young and energetic, I'm getting that you might appreciate a bit of a drop from the sensory overload that some of the resorts possess. It's enough to get that from the parks.

For a moderate I would recommend Port Orleans Riverside, requesting Alligator Bayou and a crib. If you are lucky enough to get in on that side of the resort, you'd have the addition of a trundle bed for the 4 year old, and the crib for the baby. Be aware that they are a hot commodity, however, and reserved for families of 5 who need the bed space (children ages 3-9 take priority over and infant, so to speak.)

If there is any way, given that time of the year and your comment about the 'cattle trailers,' I would consider which parks you think you would go to the most, and book near that location; Boardwalk or Yacht/Beach for the MGM or Epcot resorts, and Contemporary/Polynesian/Grand/Wilderness Lodge for the Magic Kingdom. Animal Kingdom is also nice, but my hunch is that you won't be spending the bulk of your time at AK. These resorts are a bit more expensive, but also come with additional square footage and a balcony to escape to, as well as more convenient access to certain resorts. The dining choices are also more varied, which is nice to escape the Chicken Tenders Torture.

It all depends on your budget, however.

[hersheythecat]

I would rather see you at Caribbean Beach since their rooms are slightly larger therefore more room for the crib. I have stayed at Port Orleans Riverside with a crib and the only real place to put it was in the sink area under the closet rod. In Caribbean there was just a bit more space therefore more space for the crib especially since you will be having that extra person. Now if you can pay up for the Polynesia, the child can sleep on the sofabed, the crib will fit nicely in front of the connecting door and the 3rd adult can have their own bed.

[WDW heart]

I have to agree with the Caribbean Beach. I think the adults in your party will have a wonderful time there and you will feel much more relaxed. As far as transportation, perhaps look at renting a car so you can come and go as you please. We have never done it but many love the option. Its great that you are doing the cruise afterwards. That will be wonderful.

[hersheythecat]

The buses to Caribbean Beach don't seem as overwhelming (to me) as the ones to POFQ or Riverside. We have stayed about all three resorts and had much better experiences with the bus system at CB.

[Duane]

With children along, I would bet the majority of your time will be spent at the Magic Kingdom. If your budget allows, definitely stay at the Contemporary or Polynesian. Contemporary is within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom and has a great pool, gameroom, Chef Mickey's restaurant, and 24 hour snack bar. Polynesian is within walking distance to the ticket and transportation center so you can jump on the monorail to the Magic Kingdom or EPCOT. Polynesian also has the Volcano pool, O'Hana's restaurant, and the outdoor Luau show. Either choice will be quite rewarding if it's within reach financially. If you don't go to Disney World very often, I recommend spending the extra bucks and making it a more magical trip. You will be able to avoid the cattle cars too if you choose one of these resorts. Also, the Grand Floridian has a great location but may be a little "stuffy" for young children. The Grand Floridian seems to stress elegance instead of fun and excitement. Good luck.

[MouseFaninQueue]

Thnx everyone for such quick and well informed responses!!!

Cost is quickly becoming a factor on this trip as each section is starting to add up. I think I am at $10,000 for this trip so far ... 8o

I did originally look at the Polynesian and the Contemporary (when we were thinking of the land/sea cruise) but the price difference between them and the Moderates (Riverside and Beach) is $2500 for the same length of stay.

As for parks, in 1997 I was a big fan of MGM and both the wife and I loved listening to Off Kilter at the Canadian Pavillion in Epcot (ok I'm from Canada and a little biased). Last year we took the kids to Disneyland twice (once in May with grandparents and aunts and uncles and cousins - and once in October with just the 4 of us) so I'm not sure how much they are going to like MK over the different ones (my 4yr old daughter just LOVES Tower of Terror). Oh who am I kidding, they are kids they will love MK!!

But the info on the Beach is intriguing as originally I thought it looked more "adult" and less fun for my kids. But then again - exactly how much time will we be spending at the hotel. In Disneyland we stayed at the Disneyland Hotel and didn't spend any time there except to sleep.

More things to think about!!

[WDW heart]

But the info on the Beach is intriguing as originally I thought it looked more "adult" and less fun for my kids. But then again - exactly how much time will we be spending at the hotel. In Disneyland we stayed at the Disneyland Hotel and didn't spend any time there except to sleep.

More things to think about!!

I took DD there when she was three. She loved it. They have a playground and the themed pool is great for kids. She also loved all the scenery, the sand beaches, the boats and walking around the property.

[mzloolue]

Riverside Alligator Bayou does have those trundle beds that are great for children.

I don't know about fitting in a crib.

We really liked the curtain that they have installed across the sink area to form a dressing room area.
It helped speed things up when getting dressed in the morning. And I really hate dressing in a bathroom.

[SuefromRI]

When my kids were younger they enjoyed the CBR. There is a playground, a slide in the pool, hammocks on the beaches and sand to dig in. the buildings are so colorful and fun looking to kids. Also, with the multiple pools for each building they are sometimes empty, making them not so scary to a toddler.
We have always rented a car which to me seems so much easier to get around with strollers, etc, plus we always have an extra sweatshirt and snacks, etc in the car just in case. plus, we are spoiled to take our refillable mugs in the morning with us.

[Burnt Toast]

Riverside Alligator Bayou does have those trundle beds that are great for children.

I would about to suggest this as well. I love Port Orleans: Riverside.

Check mousesavers for hotel room discount codes, always a good idea before you book that vacation.

If you want to splurge a little, I suggest the Animal Kingdom Lodge. It's one of the cheaper Deluxe properties and I think it's just really special and neat. The savannah view room (where you can just sit out on your balcony and there's animals RIGHT THERE just grazing and kickin' it) was well worth it in my opinion. Might be something really special for the little ones.

I also really liked Pop Century when I stayed there last month. I saw plenty of kids having a great time and the location on property is so much better then the All-Stars.

[geoffa]

If you haven't already booked then contact these guys:

http://www.dreamcometruevacations.com/

They are THE best. You can call them toll free with all your questions and they'll come back to you with solutions. Ok you don't have to book with them but we found them to be an absolute mine of information.

[Mark Goldhaber]

And don't forget MousePlanet sponsor Small World Vacations, either. Right, Mickeymac?

[Mickeymac]

Awwwh, gee thanks MarK! Ya gonna blow my cover! LOL!

Seriously, MFQ, have you come to any decision yet? Leaning towards anything? Do you have your dates set a bit? Have you booked your cruise yet? So much to think about....

[luckyamber]

If you want to splurge a little, I suggest the Animal Kingdom Lodge. It's one of the cheaper Deluxe properties and I think it's just really special and neat. The savannah view room (where you can just sit out on your balcony and there's animals RIGHT THERE just grazing and kickin' it) was well worth it in my opinion. Might be something really special for the little ones.

I just stayed at AKL and although my husband and I loved it, I wouldn't suggest it for as many people as you have. The rooms are super small. Contemporary rooms were the biggest of all the ones I've stayed in, but if it's not in your budget I'd look at Carribean.

[MouseFaninQueue]

Well we are doing some looking and right now I think the Deluxe resorts are probably out of our budget. If we weren't doing the cruise as well as WDW we would probably upgrade to the Contemporary or possibly the AKL (the animals at night on the balcony is a BIG plus).

Right now based on everyone's comments on here (thnx again everyone it has been great and appreciated) I think we are leaning towards the CBR. Probably go well with the Cruise and keep the theme the same .

As for dates, right now we have been targetting an Oct 28 arrival and then departing on Nov 5, 2006 on the 4 night Bahamian cruise and flying home on Nov 9th. These dates would also mean we would be interested in at least one night of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween for our 4 year old daughter. We had originally thought about trying to time it so we are on the cruise for her 5th birthday on Nov 17th but we just can't seem to time it right for when we want to travel.

Thnx for the info on the two travel companies. I have sent an e-mail to a travel agent (BCAA - our version of AAA) that planned our Disneyland trip in May of 2005, however she hasn't been able to get back to us due to a family emergency and I am getting a little concerned that we may not get what we want on the cruise if it takes much longer. Perhaps I should post a question about that in the Disney Cruise line forum. Also, I've never booked a trip through an American company so I'm not sure how or how well it works with us Canucks ...

So in summary this is the trip I think we are leaning towards...

Oct 28 fly out of Vancouver, BC, Canada arrive in WDW
Oct 28 - Nov 5 stay at CBR
Tickets: 8 days Magic Your Way with Dining, Park Hopper and Water Parks and more. Get tickets to Mickey's Halloween Party
Nov 5th - Board the Cruise ship
Wanting a Category 6 Deluxe Oceanview room for me, my wife and the 2 kids and booking a Category 11 Inside Stateroom for my sister (it seemed cheaper on Disney.com to get two rooms rather than upgrade to the Category 4 room plus we would get an extra room and of course shower). Ideally we would like these to be across the hall from each other.
Undecided on any excursions as of yet but have been told we need to do the Atlantis one in Nassau.
Disembark Nov 9 and catch a flight back to Vancouver that day.

So how am I doing??

[WDW heart]

So how am I doing??

Sounds like an awesome trip! *jealous*

[MouseFaninQueue]

WDW-74,76,77,79,81,88,89,91,95,99,02,6/05,10/05

And you say you are jealous ... LOL *jealous*

My stats are:
DL - 78 (I was 6), 95(there went the student loan!), 98 (Honeymoon), 05/05, 10/05
WDW - 93(roadtrip with my dad - yes we drove!), 97(got engaged- yes we drove!)

[efoxx]

I would definatly say a mod resort for your length of stay, just the fact that the buses will be less crowded is worth it.

but dare I venture another idea? what if there was a way you could possibly stay at say the Beach club, or Wilderness lodge for the same price?

what I am talking about is renting points from a DVC member. they usually rent for $10 a point so a week in a studio at one of these resorts would cost you about $1060 total. if you want more info let me know.

and no I am not currently renting my points, nor will I make money from you if you rent any points. I just think this is an overlooked way of getting a lot more hotel for your money.

[Klutch]

I looked into renting from a DVC member at the Boardwalk and every single stay was for Sunday through Thursday or Sunday through Friday. My trip is already set for Saturday through Saturday. Apparently, it's not an option for me.

[geoffa]

My wife and I haven't been to WDW since 1997 when we got engaged there. We are also planning on doing a 4 night cruise after our 8 days in WDW. I'm just hoping some of you regulars to WDW can give some ideas or suggestions on which hotel will fit for my group. Thnx in advance!!

Going a little off thread -on the cruise - make sure you don't miss a visit to the ship's bridge - it is AWESOME!

[hbquikcomjamesl]

Just based on what I've heard, seen, and experienced over the years, I'd say that the All Star Music is the best of the All Stars, but not necessarily the most kid-friendly (both of which are reasons for me to keep staying there myself, at least as long as I'm vacationing alone). If you want something more luxurious, you're probably going to need to move up to a moderate.

Concerning "all [the kids] want is a pool to play in," may I point out that this applies only if they swim. It may very well be the last thing they want. It certainly was for me, when I was a kid, and it still is now that I'm 43.

[geoffa]

Concerning "all [the kids] want is a pool to play in," may I point out that this applies only if they swim. It may very well be the last thing they want. It certainly was for me, when I was a kid, and it still is now that I'm 43.

I ,in no way, want to get into an argument about this and I shall try to be as polite as possible but I feel ALL kids should be taught to swim when young (whether they'll use the pools at Disney in later life or not). Personally, two places you'll never see me at Disney is Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon.The younger the better - my nephews were swimming (under supervision) at 12 months!!
My brother scared the hell out of me when I was 5 years old at a public pool and I never went near water again until I was 13 years old and had to go to the pool at High School. Thankfully a great sports teacher recognised my terror (along with one or two more kids) and took the time and patience to teach us. I'm not a strong swimmer but I'd sure know what to do in water if any accident occurred.
OK - enough said. Now let's get back on thread.....

[WDW heart]

And you say you are jealous ... LOL *jealous*

My stats are:
DL - 78 (I was 6), 95(there went the student loan!), 98 (Honeymoon), 05/05, 10/05
WDW - 93(roadtrip with my dad - yes we drove!), 97(got engaged- yes we drove!)

Yeah, well my past WDW trips are just that.........in the past. An upcoming trip is always so much nicer than a previous trip. I may be going in November though. DH is 'thinking about it'.

[monoman]

I definetly request a moderate. With three adults and two children, you should try and get as much space as possible. Plus there are more activities in a moderate resort.

Caribbean Beach would be a great resort. They have a huge kids pool.
As and added feature, the kids will love the food court(kids meals come in a pail and a shovel, and it's cheap.)

I will be checking in there in about 3 months, I'll keep you updated on that!

Good Luck!

PLEASE STAND CLEAR OF THE DOORS. THANK YOU.