I got a phone call about SSR booking categories

[cheapmom]

Hey all- I sent an email to DVC Member Satisfaction at DVCMemberSatisfactionTeam@disneyvacationclub.com asking if they had given any consideration to guaranteed booking categories for SSR. To my pleasant surprise I got a phone call rather than a canned email response.

The person was really nice and asked my opinion on what kinds of categories I would like to see. I told her I thought to be able to guarantee DTD view, Grandstand, Springs... would be nice- but I would be satisfied with a setup as simple as 3 categories- 1. Close to carriage house 2. DTD view 3. Everything else.
I expressed how much this would enhance my membership. She said this was an interesting idea and she was taking it to the leadership team who makes decisions about member suggestions. I asked if she had heard about this idea before and she said no, she had not, but they had a favorable response from members about a similar recent change at OKW. I mentioned that I had sent the suggestion in several months ago and she put me on hold and came back and said she could find any record of it. So if you are into this idea- send an email (or another email if you have already) as it looks like they may be actually listening now.

[cheapmom]

Also- I let them know how pleased I was to get an individualized response as opposed to a scripted email She told me that they are over-hauling their member satisfaction department and will be trying to address each request with individual attention more often than they have in the past.

[tomandrobin]

Thanks for that bit of news! Personally, I think it would be a great idea to have view/booking categories. They exist at BWV, AKV, OKW and VB and I think that would only enhance SSR's appeal. On the downside, Carousel Section will end up being more of a desolate section then it is now.

[AFMom]

Cool Beans!

[BWV Dreamin]

I just sent this to Member Satisfaction...I hope this helps the cause! :)
Hello Member Satisfaction, I would like to send you my request for creating booking catagories for SSR. While I am not an owner of that resort, I do own at Boardwalk that has the different booking catogories. I purchased there specifically for that reason. I have been hesitant in staying at SSR because there are no catagory choices. If you would consider creating some (GrandStand area, Congress Park) I would book there in a heartbeat!!! Thanks again for taking time to read my request.

[jbrowna]

Thanks for that bit of news! Personally, I think it would be a great idea to have view/booking categories. They exist at BWV, AKV, OKW and VB and I think that would only enhance SSR's appeal. On the downside, Carousel Section will end up being more of a desolate section then it is now.

It seems to me that one way to avoid the issue with Carousel being undesireable would be to adjust point requirements for some of the categories. For example, increase the DTD view by a point, and decrease the Carousel area by a point -- or whatever change(s) would help to keep the point shift "neutral" overall. :teacher: If Carousel were a couple of points less, that might help mitigate any feeling of remoteness!

[SS04]

It seems to me that one way to avoid the issue with Carousel being undesireable would be to adjust point requirements for some of the categories. For example, increase the DTD view by a point, and decrease the Carousel area by a point -- or whatever change(s) would help to keep the point shift "neutral" overall. :teacher: If Carousel were a couple of points less, that might help mitigate any feeling of remoteness!

Great idea. Almost everyone I think likes to have the option of spending less points for a certain trip.

[acourtwdw]

Please don't flame me, but I hate this idea. I think that it makes things more complicated than neccessary. I hate having to try to figure out how many points based on views/room location. I like it just the way it is. It's a crap shoot, sometimes you get what you want, sometimes you get a whole new experience.

[JimP]

Please don't flame me, but I hate this idea. I think that it makes things more complicated than neccessary. I hate having to try to figure out how many points based on views/room location. I like it just the way it is. It's a crap shoot, sometimes you get what you want, sometimes you get a whole new experience.

Personally... I do not think SSR booking catagories is as important as BWV where the BW view is a huge difference from other views.

/Jim

[mountainjourno]

Personally... I do not think SSR booking catagories is as important as BWV where the BW view is a huge difference from other views.

/Jim

I'd have to disagree - the distance to walk between the different buildings at SSR is one of the main factors, while at BWV it's not such an issue. I think having booking categories will make a huge difference, and it won't hurt anyone. I'm all for it!

[cheapmom]

It seems to me that one way to avoid the issue with Carousel being undesireable would be to adjust point requirements for some of the categories. For example, increase the DTD view by a point, and decrease the Carousel area by a point -- or whatever change(s) would help to keep the point shift "neutral" overall. :teacher: If Carousel were a couple of points less, that might help mitigate any feeling of remoteness!

Although I don't hate the idea changing the point structure- I would rather have them simply allow guaranteed booking categories and leave the points chart as it is. With the addition of Hawaii and Dineyland we will have 4 offsite resorts trying to book WDW resorts at the 7 month window- Anything at WDW will be a victory- if the Carousael is all that is available- so be it. Why should SSR owners who book at 11 months end up in Siberia while cash guests or HHI owners (no offense inteded- I am an HHI owner myelf) have equal crack at the best rooms?
The 11 month window at BWV is a perfect example of treating owners as they should be treated- not only do they get 1st crack at their favorite view- YOU CAN'T EVEN BOOK THE HIGHLY DESIRABLE BWVIEW ROOMS UNLESS YOU ARE STAYING ON POINTS. That is really a special perk- I think it is genius!

[cheapmom]

I just sent this to Member Satisfaction...I hope this helps the cause! :)
Hello Member Satisfaction, I would like to send you my request for creating booking catagories for SSR. While I am not an owner of that resort, I do own at Boardwalk that has the different booking catogories. I purchased there specifically for that reason. I have been hesitant in staying at SSR because there are no catagory choices. If you would consider creating some (GrandStand area, Congress Park) I would book there in a heartbeat!!! Thanks again for taking time to read my request.

LOVE IT!!!! That's what we need- support from a cross section of membership! The other benefit to non-ssr owners is that I TRULY believe this change would keep a lot of SSR owners off the waitlist. I know I would be staying at home if I knew I had the DTD view. Without that guarantee I will waitlist for another resort ALMOST every time.

[cheapmom]

Can you tell I am a little bit passionate about this? I think I had too much coffee this morning- :coffee1:I am all excited over the revival of this issue!

[magicmommy]

Personally... I do not think SSR booking catagories is as important as BWV where the BW view is a huge difference from other views.

/Jim

As an owner at SSR I respectfully disagree. If I book at the 8-11 month window and I usually do....my desired location of the Grandstand with its own pool and pool bar, golf course views, easy walk to DTD, AP and the main pool make it much more desirable FOR MY family than a Carousel building overlooking the entrance with no pool and a longer walk everwhere!

[JimP]

OK... I submit... but I still do not think it is AS big a deal as the BW view at BWV.

The resort is so big... that if you show up early, I think you have a very good chance of gettig a good room location almost anywhere you want by requesting it at the front desk.

So far we have only been to SSR once... and we had a great room overlooking DTD. I think we had the closest room to the water of any of the 4 buildings.

We are going to be at SSR for 2 weeks starting on 12/27. Since we can only arrive late from the west coast (except via red eyes)... we will get in late, and get a studio for the night... then move to a 2BR the next day. I like to be at the resort early to lobby for a good room. You can bet that I will be trying my best on the night of arrival for my next day check-in.

/Jim

[tomandrobin]

We are going to be at SSR for 2 weeks starting on 12/27. Since we can only arrive late from the west coast (except via red eyes)... we will get in late, and get a studio for the night... then move to a 2BR the next day. I like to be at the resort early to lobby for a good room. You can bet that I will be trying my best on the night of arrival for my next day check-in.

/Jim

We haven't booked our airfare yet, but I can tell you that we will be on the first flight out of BWI. I expect us to be at SSR between 8:30 to 9:00 am on the 27th.

Early bird gets the room. It doesn't matter if we get a DTD view or not. We want to be in either of the two buildings by the Grand Stand pool.

[carolina_yankee]

Personally... I do not think SSR booking catagories is as important as BWV where the BW view is a huge difference from other views.

/Jim

The big problem with Carousel isn't its location so much as that it has none of amenities every other section has. It has to share a quiet pool with Paddock, which already has the smallest quiet pool for its own 4 buildings, and now add Carousel's 2 - and that makes a horrible imbalance.

For folks in Studios, that also makes guest laundry very far away. I like SSR, I'm fine with their transportation, and I like to use DME so I don't have to rent a car. I'll willingly do what it takes to guarantee I don't get Siberia. :)

Dirk

[Starr W.]

As an owner at SSR I respectfully disagree. If I book at the 8-11 month window and I usually do....my desired location of the Grandstand with its own pool and pool bar, golf course views, easy walk to DTD, AP and the main pool make it much more desirable FOR MY family than a Carousel building overlooking the entrance with no pool and a longer walk everwhere!

I'm also an SSR owner and I do book at 8-11 months and my desired location is CP. I think it's absurd that we have to get at the crack of dawn to make sure we get our desired building location. And it's more than the view, for some families certain sections work better for them. The walks at SSR are certainly longer than the BWV halls.

[BWV Dreamin]

I, too, just recieved a phone call from member satisfaction saying that they recieved my email about the booking categories, and is passing the info on to ?(can't remember who she said). She thanked me for the information, and assured me that these requests were being evaluated.:bouncingg

[AZDVC]

Please don't flame me, but I hate this idea. I think that it makes things more complicated than neccessary. I hate having to try to figure out how many points based on views/room location. I like it just the way it is. It's a crap shoot, sometimes you get what you want, sometimes you get a whole new experience.

I agree with you, acourtwdw, this is not an issue with SSR. I have a feeling it evens out, people want by the carriage house or out on the periphery.
I don't want the hassle of booking catagories.
Patsy

[kiapgh23e]

We just bought our SSR this Feb, though I havent stayed yet reading this post got me thinking.
1. This is my home resort so I do agree that we as part owners of SSR should get first dibs at what catagory/view we want. (as I have no objection that other DVC members should get dibs for their resort.) I think there shouldnt be any or a few points difference for view.
2. I know that this is not about this post (maybe I should start a new one) but like I said I havent stayed in SSR yet. Could someone describe pros/cons of the various places to stay at SSR. (I will make a new post.)

[cheapmom]

We just bought our SSR this Feb, though I havent stayed yet reading this post got me thinking.
1. This is my home resort so I do agree that we as part owners of SSR should get first dibs at what catagory/view we want. (as I have no objection that other DVC members should get dibs for their resort.) I think there shouldnt be any or a few points difference for view.
2. I know that this is not about this post (maybe I should start a new one) but like I said I havent stayed in SSR yet. Could someone describe pros/cons of the various places to stay at SSR. (I will make a new post.)

I just posted this on your other thread- not so much pros/cons as decriptions- but I think it will help.
Springs: closest to Carriage House and Main Pool
Grandstand: newsest rooms, many golf course views, themed pool with snack bar, Part of this section is very convenient to Carriage House
Congress Park: many have DTD views, Easy walk to DTD Marketplace, Parts of section are fairly close to Carriage House, nice quiet pool
Paddocks: Most have pretty water views, quiet section, quiet pool, Parts of this section have a very easy walk to DTD Marketplace, a bit removed from Carriage House
Carousel: Easiest in and out for those with a car, very quiet, most rooms have a pretty water view. No quiet pool- farthest from Carriage House.

[Carol]

I just posted this on your other thread- not so much pros/cons as decriptions- but I think it will help.
Springs: closest to Carriage House and Main Pool
Grandstand: newsest rooms, many golf course views, themed pool with snack bar, Part of this section is very convenient to Carriage House
Congress Park: many have DTD views, Easy walk to DTD Marketplace, Parts of section are fairly close to Carriage House, nice quiet pool
Paddocks: Most have pretty water views, quiet section, quiet pool, Parts of this section have a very easy walk to DTD Marketplace, a bit removed from Carriage House
Carousel: Easiest in and out for those with a car, very quiet, most rooms have a pretty water view. No quiet pool- farthest from Carriage House.

Which section gets to hear the fire alarms and fire engines leaving the Reedy Creek Fire Station? I vaguely remember someone complaining about that - was that the Carousel section or one of the others?

[playtime123]

The different booking categories is what really made a difference in our choice between SSR and AKV last year. We live on the west coast, so arriving early isn't a good strategy for us - I guess I'm just getting too old for those red-eye flights! I love the idea that I can be sure of a savannah view. It would be nice to have the choice at SSR or at least know about where you'll be. . . . the compulsive planner in me likes to know!

Stacie

[cheapmom]

Which section gets to hear the fire alarms and fire engines leaving the Reedy Creek Fire Station? I vaguely remember someone complaining about that - was that the Carousel section or one of the others?

I think that is the Paddocks- I stayed in Paddocks and really liked it-We had a pretty water view and our walk to DTD was really short (we were the closest building in Paddocks to Congress Park. I had no idea there was a fire station nearby.

[JimP]

I think that is the Paddocks- I stayed in Paddocks and really liked it-We had a pretty water view and our walk to DTD was really short (we were the closest building in Paddocks to Congress Park. I had no idea there was a fire station nearby.

It is directly accross the street on the "hallway side" of the buildings.

/Jim

[JimP]

The different booking categories is what really made a difference in our choice between SSR and AKV last year. We live on the west coast, so arriving early isn't a good strategy for us - I guess I'm just getting too old for those red-eye flights! I love the idea that I can be sure of a savannah view. It would be nice to have the choice at SSR or at least know about where you'll be. . . . the compulsive planner in me likes to know!

Stacie

Stacie,

Like you, we arrive from the west coast. We generally fly on Saturday, and really don't want to pay the high initial cost for that night in a 2BR unit (our normal size). Sometimes we will book a room in a value resort just to crash for the night. We don't get in till close to midnight, and then we are checked out by 8:00 am. This gets us to DVC bright and early :)

For our next trip, we are going to spend the first night in an SSR studio... changing to an SSR 2BR for the remainder of the trip (13 nights).

/Jim

[mountainjourno]

I received a phone call about this yesterday afternoon! The lady that rang was very pleasant.

I don't want the hassle of having to change rooms the next day to get the section that I want, and being in the north west of the continent, I always get in late. So yeah - bring on the booking categories!!

[cheapmom]

Personally... I do not think SSR booking catagories is as important as BWV where the BW view is a huge difference from other views.

/Jim
I agree that the view isn't as important at SSR as it is at BW- but room location is at least as important at SSR than it is at OKW and they have a location category.

[kiapgh23e]

thanks for the breakdown cheapmom. Will go to the other thread.

[jbrowna]

We live on the west coast, so arriving early isn't a good strategy for us - I guess I'm just getting too old for those red-eye flights!

Stacie -

DW and I fly in from Portland, OR, and we like the red-eyes. In fact, the older we get the easier it seems to fall asleep... :) and we arrive plenty early for check-in!

[playtime123]

Like you, we arrive from the west coast. We generally fly on Saturday, and really don't want to pay the high initial cost for that night in a 2BR unit (our normal size). Sometimes we will book a room in a value resort just to crash for the night. We don't get in till close to midnight, and then we are checked out by 8:00 am. This gets us to DVC bright and early :)

For our next trip, we are going to spend the first night in an SSR studio... changing to an SSR 2BR for the remainder of the trip (13 nights).

Oooooh, I like that idea! DH will like it too, lots more than a red eye fight!!

Stacie

[dsruton]

cheapmom,

Just signed the petition

[Rumblebuffin]

I like the idea of assigning rooms on a first come first served basis rather than increasing some/decreasing points necessary for stays in various parts of SSR. We have stayed at SSR four times and only once did we not get our preferred Congress Park location. (We like the proximity to DTD, the quiet pool, and short walk to the Carriage House).

Just signed the petition. Thanks for starting this thread!

:blueflowe

[mountainjourno]

I signed the petition too :jumpingbe

[marktaraericalauren]

We'll be staying at SSR in Dec. I think this is a great idea. I would love to be able to know where I'm staying before the day I get there. Just signed the petition

[cheapmom]

That is great! We are really getting some signatures together, now!

[rnawiz]

I signed the petition, too. ( number 26!)

It would have made our upcoming vacation much simpler to plan if booking categories were available. We are going with my brother and his extended family, and we had to register for a magical gathering number to ensure our villas will be anywhere near each other.

[pollymn]

I just signed #27

[JimP]

I agree that the view isn't as important at SSR as it is at BW- but room location is at least as important at SSR than it is at OKW and they have a location category.

This is a valid point. I agree when compared to OKW.

/Jim

[dschieber]

Stacie -

DW and I fly in from Portland, OR, and we like the red-eyes. In fact, the older we get the easier it seems to fall asleep... :) and we arrive plenty early for check-in!

We fly from the west coast on a red eye. We book the "day rate" at the airport Hyatt. Perfect to get straight off the plane and go to bed for 4 hours or so, shower and head out to DVC around 1 pm. Helps regulate the three hour time difference too.

Deb

[glypnirsgirl]

Ian and I sometimes do very early morning flights and go straight to check in and then to the parks while waiting for room to get ready. We also do the taking the flight after work on Friday night and stay off-site thing. Last time we did this we stayed at the Radisson Maingate --- which I found stinky - smelled like mold and mildew although I never saw any. I really prefer the Sheraton Safari - its closer, nicer and just a little more expensive. You also get a free breakfast that is quite good.

We have never tried staying at one of the Values for the first night. When you do that, do you do it on points?

Elaine

[JimP]

We have never tried staying at one of the Values for the first night. When you do that, do you do it on points?

Elaine

I have not done the values on points... it is hard for me to imagine doing so. Using points outside of DVC just doesn't make any sense (or cents) to me.

/Jim

[JimP]

We fly from the west coast on a red eye. We book the "day rate" at the airport Hyatt. Perfect to get straight off the plane and go to bed for 4 hours or so, shower and head out to DVC around 1 pm. Helps regulate the three hour time difference too.

Deb

DW just took a red-eye from Portland OR to MCO arriving about 9:00am. She went straight to SSR and they had a room to check into right away. She took a nap and then walked over to DTD for lunch mid-afternoon. I was flying in from Shanghai and I did not get in till late.

The biggest problem that I see with your approach (for us) is that arriving later in the day... you lose flexibility in getting a great room assignment. They seem to be pretty flexible about letting you choose buildings/floors once you arrive at the check-in desk. Later in the day... you get what is left.

/Jim

[mickey4us]

:iagree: SSR desperately needs booking categories. There is no real benefit to owning at SSR, it is a resort that you can always get a room at. I was sooooo disappointed our last trip when we did not get anywhere close to what we wanted. We even stayed at a value resort the night before and then went to SSR at 8 AM like we were supposed to. My DH came back with "Carousel bad news". I then went to SSR several hours later and complained. I mean seriously I booked our room 10 months out and ended up in Siberia. The manager did change our room, but it was not much better. Instead of parking lot view we got golf course view, still in Siberia. I vowed to never stay there again, and to sell my points and buy somewhere else where we could guarantee our view. I would probably keep my points and enjoy my stay there if I could guarantee our view!

[kdzgon]

:iagree: SSR desperately needs booking categories. There is no real benefit to owning at SSR, it is a resort that you can always get a room at. I was sooooo disappointed our last trip when we did not get anywhere close to what we wanted. We even stayed at a value resort the night before and then went to SSR at 8 AM like we were supposed to. My DH came back with "Carousel bad news". I then went to SSR several hours later and complained. I mean seriously I booked our room 10 months out and ended up in Siberia. The manager did change our room, but it was not much better. Instead of parking lot view we got golf course view, still in Siberia. I vowed to never stay there again, and to sell my points and buy somewhere else where we could guarantee our view. I would probably keep my points and enjoy my stay there if I could guarantee our view!

This has happened to us twice so far (2x out of 2 - not a good statistic!), once stuck in Carousel, once in the furthest possible room with 2 people of limited mobility. It will be a looong time before I book at SSR again if at all possible. On the other hand, I have found the CMs at both OKW and BW to be extremely helpful in comparison.

[Daitcher]

OK... I submit... but I still do not think it is AS big a deal as the BW view at BWV./Jim



You've obviously never been in a remote part of SSR. It is a FAR bigger deal than getting a non BW view at BWV IMO.

Booking categories makes total sense at SSR and the surprising part is that it wasn't done upfront.



DAVE

[Daitcher]

:iagree: SSR desperately needs booking categories. There is no real benefit to owning at SSR, it is a resort that you can always get a room at.



Just wanted to say that I was thrown off of another message board for statements exactly like this.

By the way no truer statement has ever been posted on any board. :thumbsup:



DAVE

[cheapmom]

Daitcher- what the other board say- that you were resort bashing? That is ridiculous- I truly adore SSR- but I agree with the opinion that the 11 month advantage is the least valuable of all the resorts.

I think that SSR was built as a sort of overflow resort as DVC prepared the west coast expansion and by very design will almost always have availability at 7 months.

[Daitcher]

Daitcher- what the other board say- that you were resort bashing? That is ridiculous- I truly adore SSR- but I agree with the opinion that the 11 month advantage is the least valuable of all the resorts.

I think that SSR was built as a sort of overflow resort as DVC prepared the west coast expansion and by very design will almost always have availability at 7 months.


Well, technically I was banned for posting opinion as fact. Uhhhhh, isn't most of what we all post opionated in nature? Anyway, I also called SSR an overflow property and you should have seen the flames flying!

I'll stick right here where we can post opinions without being blasted. We all can't like the same places. As it stands BWV is the one DVC Resort I wouldn't stay at. Many love the place and I respect that. I find it run down and lacking any food poolside for our pool days. I also find the layout poor with those ridiculous neverending halaways.


DAVE

[JimP]

Well, technically I was banned for posting opinion as fact. Uhhhhh, isn't most of what we all post opionated in nature? Anyway, I also called SSR an overflow property and you should have seen the flames flying!

I'll stick right here where we can post opinions without being blasted. We all can't like the same places. As it stands BWV is the one DVC Resort I wouldn't stay at. Many love the place and I respect that. I find it run down and lacking any food poolside for our pool days. I also find the layout poor with those ridiculous neverending halaways.


DAVE

Dave,

I would agree with you about BWV... but then we would both be wrong!!! :ROTFL: J/K

/Jim

[Daitcher]

Dave,

I would agree with you about BWV... but then we would both be wrong!!! :ROTFL: J/K

/Jim

LMAO!!!!!



DAVE

[SaratogaShan]

A couple of thoughts........

Why would view be less important at SSR than BWV? If someone really wants a view of Downtown Disney, no other view will serve as an adequate substitute. I am glad that at SSR most of the rooms have a pretty view of something...pool, golf course, fountains, etc. but the Downtown Disney view is stunning (especially at night).

Also, I think it may be a bit premature to label SSR as an "overflow resort". It is the largest, so yes there will probably always be a bit more selection at SSR. However, up until now, there have been periodic releases of inventory into the system as more rooms at SSR come online. After the last of the rooms have been released, we will be able to get a clearer picture about true occupancy levels.

Regards,
Shan :)

[Daitcher]

Also, I think it may be a bit premature to label SSR as an "overflow resort". It is the largest, so yes there will probably always be a bit more selection at SSR. However, up until now, there have been periodic releases of inventory into the system as more rooms at SSR come online. After the last of the rooms have been released, we will be able to get a clearer picture about true occupancy levels.

Regards,
Shan :)



I wouldn't call it premature at all. SSR has many fans BUT I've heard time and again that SSR is last on people's list or that they bought SSR as simply a means to get into the system. Heck, DVC guides were actively using the "buy here, stay there" sales tactics. This means lost of owners there that bought simply because that was all DVC was selling at the time. They did not buy SSR for the merits of that resort. They have little or no interest in ever staying there. These same people posting these glowing reviews of SSR haven't even tried the other resorts yet. Once they do there will be percentages of those that realize how nice it is to walk into/out of a park or take the monorail (soon) or boat. They will be done with SSR as well.

This is all about percentages. SSR is the largest DVC by far. If even a small percentage of owners fall into the categories I mention above that is a TON of people looking to book the smaller DVC Resorts like BCV at 7 months. Who does it impact? Well talk to owners of BCV or VWL and they'll tell you it affects them. They now MUST plan WAY in advance so any flexibilty they once enjoyed is now gone.

This isn't a knock on SSR. It is simply reality when you take the largest resort and put it in a location with no direct theme park access. DVC is all about WDW parks. Without them there would be no DVC so it stands to reason that the resorts with the best location to the parks are the most popular. Problem again lies in the fact that these resorts are also the smallest. This also plays into my theory that over time AKV will be the least desirable resort in the system even below SSR. There is nothing out there and for every one person who tells me they love that fact I'll show you ten who do mind. WDW is the draw not relaxation.


DAVE

[cheapmom]

I agree that it is an overflow resort- but I also think it is a wonderful place to stay- I have stayed on the monorail- loved it- and when BLT comes on line- I want in. But still, even as a BLT owner there will still be times that I would choose SSR as 1st choice. Girl's weekend- (spa in the day, DTD at night) or relaxing getaway with DH are 2 examples of when I will choose SSR 1st. I just made a 3 night res for DH and me and we chose SSR out of my 3 choices: VWL, OKW and SSR.

Some people hate it, some love it- but it's presumptious to say that most SSR owners bought in to stay elsewhere. The guides are selling flexibilty and yes, I agree with Dave that we have seen zillions of posts from ssr owners either in the purchasing process or new owners starting threads with titles like "What are my chances of getting X at 7 months?" It does have a lot to do with how the guides are selling DVC membership- but more than that- I think it is a question the NEW owners will naturally ask. Now there are more and more AKV owners asking these questions. I think that the reason we don't see these posts from OKW, BCV and BWV owners very often is because most of them have owned long enough to already know the answer to the question. New owners might just want to sample the DVC buffet, because that is what they were sold. It doesn't necessarily mean they bought SSR with no intention of staying there.

AKV's theming is a very unique draw- I don't think it will ever be less popular than SSR. I think so many people put so much value on walking to a theme park on these boards. I don't think people in the real world are that picky about HAVING to be steps from a park. Samntha Brown named AKL as her favorite Disney Resort.

[JimP]

I think the the savanna views will keep AKV as one of the most unique resorts ever... and hence very desireable for quite a while. I do not think it will be as popular as resorts with direct access to the parks... but it will remain more popular than SSR IMHO.

/Jim

[glypnirsgirl]

It is interesting to me that the first DVC (OKW) did not have direct access to the parks and was not connected to a Deluxe Hotel and still, after all these years, is a favorite with its owners. I have owned there since 1994. It is still my favorite resort. I have not stayed at every resort. I have stayed at VWL and BWV. Some day, I would like to stay at BCV, but it will be awhile before I do so.

When it came time to buy more points, I chose to buy at SSR because it offered me some of the same things that I love about OKW (serenity and wide open spaces - no long halls) and I got a great deal on it. After staying there, I was happy with my purchase.

I think that there are plenty of people like me that PREFER to not be hooked on to a hotel.

Elaine

[cheapmom]

We have 38 signatures!!!:clappingh

[JimP]

OK everyone... your excellent debating skills won me over... and you now have #39.

/Jim

[cheapmom]

Thanks, Jim!!! :)

[Daitcher]

It is interesting to me that the first DVC (OKW) did not have direct access to the parks and was not connected to a Deluxe Hotel and still, after all these years, is a favorite with its owners. I have owned there since 1994. It is still my favorite resort. I have not stayed at every resort. I have stayed at VWL and BWV. Some day, I would like to stay at BCV, but it will be awhile before I do so.

When it came time to buy more points, I chose to buy at SSR because it offered me some of the same things that I love about OKW (serenity and wide open spaces - no long halls) and I got a great deal on it. After staying there, I was happy with my purchase.

I think that there are plenty of people like me that PREFER to not be hooked on to a hotel.

Elaine



There ARE plenty of people that love SSR. There are tons of them and there are also tons of them that like the condo set up. I'm just talking percentages and even if a small percentage of owners there book elsehwere consistently, it strains the smaller high demand resorts. That is all. Even if 10% do this that is a ton of people becasue SSR is too big for the current DVC system.

As far as OKW, I agree it is a great resort and it has a loyal following. What it has that cannot be matched is the combination of the largest rooms and the lowest points. That is a winning combination. Again all of my issues with SSR stem from size of the resort and the points are too high. If SSR was the size of OKW with the same point structure then I'd be fine with it and those low points would draw folks in. As it stands it has crippled availability at 7 months.

Personally I like SSR but I'm still trying to get BCV and VWL at 7 months, I'm not alone.


DAVE

[Carol]

Some random thoughts:

I agree that SSR is too big for the WDW DVC system. As Dave said, even if there is only a small percentage of SSR owners trying to stay elsewhere, it's still a big number.

And there aren't as many owners at VWL, BCV & BWV that want to stay at SSR as SSR owners that want to stay at VWL, BCV or BWV. (That is my opinion. I don't have any verifiable facts.)

If the booking categories will encourage more SSR owners to stay at SSR, that can only be a good thing for anyone in the system who likes to move around at 7 months. It would also be a good thing if Disney reallocated the SSR points and made the section everyone hates cost less points. That should make that section more popular or at least less hated, LOL.

I also think the more desirable SSR sections (whatever they may be) should be reserved for DVC members staying on points, just like the Boardwalk view at BWV. Let the late bookers and CRO customers stay in the other sections.

When we visited SSR, it seemed very nice, but it is too spread out for us. I feel the same way about CBR, CS, POR & OKW, so I guess I am one who prefers the hotel-like WDW resorts.

Having seen a few really rude people demanding a Boardwalk view at the BWV before the category change, I think the BWV got specific booking categories because the front desk CMs got tired of being abused. The situations I witnessed were DVC members. I could tell because they said so, very LOUDLY. I really think the complaints from the front desk is what initiated the BWV change. It will be interesting to see if DVC changes things for SSR because some of the members want a change, rather than the employees.

[tinker_me_happy]

I am ALL FOR separate booking categories! Sometimes paying the price of being far away to save the price of points is worth it, sometimes it isn't. I hope if they make the change, the points will be reflected accordingly! An example for me: Staying at AKV standard studio view for 3 nights in December so I can experience Christmas at Disney. If I had to spend the points on a savannah view, I probably wouldn't be able to make the extra trip. So instead of 2 trips in a year, because of the way I spent my points, I am able to do 4 trips!:jumpingbe

[Daitcher]

Some random thoughts:

I agree that SSR is too big for the WDW DVC system. As Dave said, even if there is only a small percentage of SSR owners trying to stay elsewhere, it's still a big number.

And there aren't as many owners at VWL, BCV & BWV that want to stay at SSR as SSR owners that want to stay at VWL, BCV or BWV. (That is my opinion. I don't have any verifiable facts.)

If the booking categories will encourage more SSR owners to stay at SSR, that can only be a good thing for anyone in the system who likes to move around at 7 months. It would also be a good thing if Disney reallocated the SSR points and made the section everyone hates cost less points. That should make that section more popular or at least less hated, LOL.

I also think the more desirable SSR sections (whatever they may be) should be reserved for DVC members staying on points, just like the Boardwalk view at BWV. Let the late bookers and CRO customers stay in the other sections.

When we visited SSR, it seemed very nice, but it is too spread out for us. I feel the same way about CBR, CS, POR & OKW, so I guess I am one who prefers the hotel-like WDW resorts.

Having seen a few really rude people demanding a Boardwalk view at the BWV before the category change, I think the BWV got specific booking categories because the front desk CMs got tired of being abused. The situations I witnessed were DVC members. I could tell because they said so, very LOUDLY. I really think the complaints from the front desk is what initiated the BWV change. It will be interesting to see if DVC changes things for SSR because some of the members want a change, rather than the employees.



Nice post! How about a regular installment of "Random thoughts by Carol"??????:bowdown:


DAVE

[Carol]

Nice post! How about a regular installment of "Random thoughts by Carol"??????:bowdown:


DAVEGee, thanks, I think. :hahahaha::hahahaha: You probably say that to all the posters who agree with you! ;) ;) :D:D

[mark&sue]

This is my first post ever on this board. However this is a subject I feel so strongly about. We are SSR owners with 520 points from the UK and we cannot get into Orlando early as our flights just don't work out that way.

We book at the 11 month window and stay for two weeks. We bought at SSR in 2004 because we like walking to downtown Disney, Crossroads and beyond. The first times we came we got Congress Park (as that was all there was) and felt so happy to be SSR owners. Last August there was only Carousel available and had to spend the first night there and paid $25 to move room the next day. I would therefore much rather spend points to know where we were going to stay. In the middle of our trip we did the Disney cruise and the same thing happened when we got back to SSR. This really put us off and have not booked to go back to WDW this year and not next year. If the catagory choice came in this would defintely change our minds. We have stayed at BCV, DLPR, exchanges and DCL with points but would definately prefer Congress Park if it could be guaranteed.

I am just off to sign the petition now.


susan

[tomandrobin]

This is my first post ever on this board. However this is a subject I feel so strongly about. We are SSR owners with 520 points from the UK and we cannot get into Orlando early as our flights just don't work out that way.

We book at the 11 month window and stay for two weeks. We bought at SSR in 2004 because we like walking to downtown Disney, Crossroads and beyond. The first times we came we got Congress Park (as that was all there was) and felt so happy to be SSR owners. Last August there was only Carousel available and had to spend the first night there and paid $25 to move room the next day. I would therefore much rather spend points to know where we were going to stay. In the middle of our trip we did the Disney cruise and the same thing happened when we got back to SSR. This really put us off and have not booked to go back to WDW this year and not next year. If the catagory choice came in this would defintely change our minds. We have stayed at BCV, DLPR, exchanges and DCL with points but would definately prefer Congress Park if it could be guaranteed.

I am just off to sign the petition now.

susan

Your post brings up another problem with Disney reservations. It does not matter when you call and make your reservations or room request, its first to arrive that is important.

[cheapmom]

Everyone who is signing the petition- make sure you also send off an email to
DVCMemberSatisfactionTeam@disneyvacationclub.com
letting them know your feelings.

If you don't feel like writing you can copy the simple text from the petition- use as is- or edit as needed. Petition text:

I would like to show support for the idea of changing the current room assignment procedure at Saratoga Springs to a system where guaranteed views and/or locations are reserved on a first come/first served basis at the time of booking.

[JimP]

Your post brings up another problem with Disney reservations. It does not matter when you call and make your reservations or room request, its first to arrive that is important.

When we arrive in December... we also get in late (10PM)... so we will cram all 4 of us for one night in the studio. We will not unpack (and if we check luggage, will not have DME deliver it)... carry one change of clothes in our carry-on and then the next morning we will move to our 2BR and "move-in".

This also saves lots of points as this is a Saturday night in the top season (12/27).

/Jim

[diva452]

:huh:
DH and I are total hotel snobs! We have stayed at some of the most exclusive hotels and resorts around the country and world. We LOVED SSR last week, it's our home resort and we bought it here in Cali without seeing it in person.

SSR is the second Disneyworld resort we have stayed at and the only DVC resort we have stayed at. We have also stayed a night here and there at Grand Californian.

We stayed at the Grand Floridian (cash) back in 2004 and found that to be too far from things like PI and DD. We also didnt like that the bars closed early and the monorail system seemed to be coordinated with the bars so we were "stuck" at GF in the evenings without a car and a long bus wait and having to buy tiny bottles of wine one at a time from the little inconvenience store by the GF marina.....:cheers2: We felt the quality of SSR was comparable to GF without the formality, although we did miss seeing all those wedding parties milling around the lobby of GF.

We liked that SSR was quiet, spread out, new, close to the highway, close to Typhoon Lagoon. The drive to Epcot and Hollywood Studios didn't seem long to us at all. Downtown Disney was a 5 minute car ride or 15 minute ferry jaunt. We even drove to Grand Floridian for our anniversary dinner and didnt find the ride too long. In fact we liked not being "trapt" by a park or hotel.

We did sign the petition for booking categories as we had hoped for Congress Park but got Grandstand. We got in quite late as we are also from west coast. We had a beautiful view of the golf course from our villa and did hear the sounds of Downtown Disney in the evenings. We also heard a siren or two once or twice during our week but it was absolutely no big deal at all. We have no complaints at all.

It seems like owners of other DVC resorts look down on SSR and it's proponents. Each resort has it's own pro's and con's and I dont think it's fair to look down on one resort over another.

Just my opinion.

[OttawaWendy]

It seems to me that one way to avoid the issue with Carousel being undesireable would be to adjust point requirements for some of the categories. For example, increase the DTD view by a point, and decrease the Carousel area by a point -- or whatever change(s) would help to keep the point shift "neutral" overall. :teacher: If Carousel were a couple of points less, that might help mitigate any feeling of remoteness!

This isn't possible. The number of points for a given unit are fixed for the entire year. They can move days into and out of certain categories, or even increase the number of points for a category and decrease in another, but the total points for the year are static. That's intentional and good - it prevents an inflationary devaluation of points.

Anyway, I think booking categories without changing points would be enough. It would give some incentive to those who plan and book in advance, instead of those who arrive first.

BTW, I really like SSR, and I've stayed at OKW, BCV, BWV and VWL in addition to my two SSR stays. My SSR stays were enhanced by location: once with just DW and I we were in Congress Park, and with a GV with the whole family we were in the Springs.

[JimP]

This isn't possible. The number of points for a given unit are fixed for the entire year. They can move days into and out of certain categories, or even increase the number of points for a category and decrease in another, but the total points for the year are static. That's intentional and good - it prevents an inflationary devaluation of points.

Anyway, I think booking categories without changing points would be enough. It would give some incentive to those who plan and book in advance, instead of those who arrive first.

BTW, I really like SSR, and I've stayed at OKW, BCV, BWV and VWL in addition to my two SSR stays. My SSR stays were enhanced by location: once with just DW and I we were in Congress Park, and with a GV with the whole family we were in the Springs.


I dont think so. I always thought the total # of annual points for the resort were fixed... but they can be reallocated amongst the units.

/Jim

[OttawaWendy]

I'm pretty sure I was told that the points were fixed by unit. I could be wrong, and will admit it if someone actually looks at the paperwork, but I think I'm right.

As a logic issue, if they could reallocate among rooms within the same resort, wouldn't they have bumped up the GVs at OKW? They are seriously under valued compared to other accommodation. The fact that they've changed the relative point value of GVs as they built other resorts sort of supports that argument.

[JimP]

I'm pretty sure I was told that the points were fixed by unit. I could be wrong, and will admit it if someone actually looks at the paperwork, but I think I'm right.

As a logic issue, if they could reallocate among rooms within the same resort, wouldn't they have bumped up the GVs at OKW? They are seriously under valued compared to other accommodation. The fact that they've changed the relative point value of GVs as they built other resorts sort of supports that argument.

I will check this post with interest. I certainly can be wrong too. I thought that OKW was the one resort that had points re-allocated... but never paid too much attention to the details (uncharacteristic of me).

/Jim

[Daitcher]

I will check this post with interest. I certainly can be wrong too. I thought that OKW was the one resort that had points re-allocated... but never paid too much attention to the details (uncharacteristic of me).

/Jim



Points CAN be reallocated anywhere. What they cannot do is mess with the total points. For instance they can make a certain booking category take more points while reducing another the same amount thus not affecting the total. Just like they could shift weekends to cost less points. They would in turn have to increase weekdays by the corresponding amount. Totals can't change but individual days/categories can be shifted.


DAVE

[JimP]

Points CAN be reallocated anywhere. What they cannot do is mess with the total points. For instance they can make a certain booking category take more points while reducing another the same amount thus not affecting the total. Just like they could shift weekends to cost less points. They would in turn have to increase weekdays by the corresponding amount. Totals can't change but individual days/categories can be shifted.


DAVE

So in other words:

Total points per resort must remain constant... but the total points per individual room do not need to?

/Jim

[Daitcher]

So in other words:

Total points per resort must remain constant... but the total points per individual room do not need to?

/Jim



Yes sir.


DAVE

[tinker_me_happy]

So once again the "Frugal Fanny" in me says make the more desirable locations more points and the furthest rooms fewer points. Seems like it could be done by making room catagories if closer rooms went up by the same number further rooms went down.

[carolina_yankee]

:huh:

It seems like owners of other DVC resorts look down on SSR and it's proponents. Each resort has it's own pro's and con's and I dont think it's fair to look down on one resort over another.
I think most people here like SSR - even a few of its critics like it better than some of the other resorts. As you say, every resort has its pros and cons, and most people like proximity to the parks. For us, we like SSR and AKV the best - and it's due to location for SSR and theme for AKV.

That said, Carousel section is the one place I would not want to stay at Disney, ever. I would be happier Pricelining a hotel on Hotel Blvd than staying at Carousel.

Dirk

[tomandrobin]

I think most people here like SSR - even a few of its critics like it better than some of the other resorts. As you say, every resort has its pros and cons, and most people like proximity to the parks. For us, we like SSR and AKV the best - and it's due to location for SSR and theme for AKV.

That said, Carousel section is the one place I would not want to stay at Disney, ever. I would be happier Pricelining a hotel on Hotel Blvd than staying at Carousel.

Dirk

We are a very vocal SSR supporter. We love the resort, the amenties and its location. But even we do not want to stay in the Carousel section.

Tom

[cheapmom]

Originally Posted by JimP
So in other words:

Total points per resort must remain constant... but the total points per individual room do not need to?
They did this at BWV, right? All rooms used to be on the same point chart. Then folks were all fighting over the BWView rooms- which you could not guarantee- so they reallocated and created 3 booking categories with 2 point charts - stndrd view on the lower chart, and pref and BW view on the higher chart.

Now- the big difference that might completely negate my whole proof that they can reallocate resort wide- is that the resort wasn't nearly sold-out yet, and perhaps since they held and controlled so many points/units- they may have had more freedom to fiddle with the charts.

[JimP]

They did this at BWV, right? All rooms used to be on the same point chart. Then folks were all fighting over the BWView rooms- which you could not guarantee- so they reallocated and created 3 booking categories with 2 point charts - stndrd view on the lower chart, and pref and BW view on the higher chart.

Now- the big difference that might completely negate my whole proof that they can reallocate resort wide- is that the resort wasn't nearly sold-out yet, and perhaps since they held and controlled so many points/units- they may have had more freedom to fiddle with the charts.

I do not think they reallocated points at BWV. I believe that they only created a separate booking classification... splitting the preferred view rooms into P/G view, and BW view. The points stayed the same.

I *THINK* they changed point values at OKW... but I am not 100% positive.

/Jim

[cheapmom]

I do not think they reallocated points at BWV. I believe that they only created a separate booking classification... splitting the preferred view rooms into P/G view, and BW view. The points stayed the same.

I *THINK* they changed point values at OKW... but I am not 100% positive.

/Jim

AHHH-- I thought I had read that really early in the sales phase they reallocated and created the standard point chart- and had 2 categories- standard and preferred. Then later split preferred into 2 cats- bwview and prferred. That was before my time though.

[JimP]

That was before my time though.

It was before my DVC (but not WDW) days too!

/Jim

[tomandrobin]

I do not think they reallocated points at BWV. I believe that they only created a separate booking classification... splitting the preferred view rooms into P/G view, and BW view. The points stayed the same.

I *THINK* they changed point values at OKW... but I am not 100% positive.

/Jim

They did change the point allocations at BWV when the two view categories were created.

[CarolA]

Please don't flame me, but I hate this idea. I think that it makes things more complicated than neccessary. I hate having to try to figure out how many points based on views/room location. I like it just the way it is. It's a crap shoot, sometimes you get what you want, sometimes you get a whole new experience.

I agree and I am seriously considering sending DVC an email explaining this. I did complain when the added the HH booking category at OKW. I have no issue if they do it when they build but the "late changes" seem to me to change the terms I bought under. IMHO if the "location" is that important then DVC may not have been a good choice. A dedicated timeshare might have been better.

Not to mention I don't get it at SSR. Last time I was there I used my Garmin for a run... It's not even a mile around that lake to the "desolate" areas LOL! It's farther around the World Showcase at Epcot! I have stayed in just about every area of SSR (except the Grandstand) and never had a problem.

[Daitcher]

I agree and I am seriously considering sending DVC an email explaining this. I did complain when the added the HH booking category at OKW. I have no issue if they do it when they build but the "late changes" seem to me to change the terms I bought under. IMHO if the "location" is that important then DVC may not have been a good choice. A dedicated timeshare might have been better.

Not to mention I don't get it at SSR. Last time I was there I used my Garmin for a run... It's not even a mile around that lake to the "desolate" areas LOL! It's farther around the World Showcase at Epcot! I have stayed in just about every area of SSR (except the Grandstand) and never had a problem.


But how would it affect you if they added the categories? Many support this, actually I'd say most support this. You'd still be free to book standard category and have the crap shoot you two seem to like.

As for the "not even a mile" comment, well, huffing that distance with a young family in tow is not fun especially with all the hiking you do at the parks. It also makes renting a car a necessity.

I'm still confused why you oppose this????? How does it hurt you?


DAVE

[carolina_yankee]

I agree and I am seriously considering sending DVC an email explaining this. I did complain when the added the HH booking category at OKW. I have no issue if they do it when they build but the "late changes" seem to me to change the terms I bought under. IMHO if the "location" is that important then DVC may not have been a good choice. A dedicated timeshare might have been better.

Not to mention I don't get it at SSR. Last time I was there I used my Garmin for a run... It's not even a mile around that lake to the "desolate" areas LOL! It's farther around the World Showcase at Epcot! I have stayed in just about every area of SSR (except the Grandstand) and never had a problem.

I agree that the distance isn't that bad if you're going to the Carriage House or main pool for several hours - but a quick run to bring breakfast back to the room and have it still warm? With a family you don't want to exhaust before they get to the parks? I think those are valid distance concerns.

Personally, I don't care if I'm in any section except Carousel (or maybe the furthest building in Grandstand). It's not distance, but the fact that Carousel has NONE of the amenities of the other areas. Officially, it's supposed to share the leisure pool with Paddock - but that's the smallest leisure pool, and it's supposed to accommodate the most buildings. Also, of all the sections, it's the furthest away from a laundry - making it very difficult to put your laundry in and go back to the room in between loads.

I think the best answer would be to put Carousel in a 'standard' category, and every other building in a preferred category like boardwalk - with perhaps Downtown Disney views being similar to preferred/boardwalk view. Either that, or give preference to earlier bookings. My way of dealing with it is just to check in early, and really plead (nicely) for a change if I got a bad assignment. Both times, that worked, but I know the odds will be against me some day.

Dirk

[Carol]

About the BWV:

When they made the Boardwalk view a separate booking category, no point changes were made. They just made certain rooms overlooking the Boardwalk and the lake a separate booking category from the other rooms.

When they decided to make a separate category for certain rooms overlooking the resort entrance and driveway (Standard View), they DID change the points. But when they did that, the resort was a long way from selling out. They actually reduced the total number of points they originally planned to sell to make that happen.



About "unit":

According to the POS, DVC can't change the total number of points to reserve a unit for an entire year. But a unit in that case is NOT a single room. It is defined in the POS and varies according to the resort. It can be a building or a portion of a building or a group of buildings. To the best of my knowledge it always includes more than one single room.



About OKW:

The reallocation there adjusted points between weekends and weekdays and between seasons, so I don't think the unit thing was much of an impediment. They pretty much did the same adjustment ofr everything. Note that when they decided to make a separate category for the buildings near to the Hospitality House, no point changes were made. Probably because the unit thing would have been a problem. (My opinion. I have no info on how they did this. As far as why, I think they did it for the same reason they did the Boardwalk view at the BWV. Too many people making a fuss at check in if they didn't get this area).

[OttawaWendy]

Carol,

Thank you for explaining the meaning of "unit". I was sure that they couldn't mess with the yearly number of points for a unit because we own a 0.374% (or whatever) in a specific unit as our actual ownership interest. But your explanation that unit isn't always a room makes a lot of sense.

I think for SSR, however big the "unit" is, it won't be big enough to allow a higher number of points in a Springs building than a Carrousel building. So I think a higher point chart for more desirable buildings isn't a possibility.

I wouldn't want that even if it were possible. I like the idea of separate booking categories but with the same points. That way, we SSR owners who book at 11 months can get the better buildings without paying more in points.

[suecait]

I agree there should either be separate booking categories or they should give the best rooms based on when the reservation was made not when a person arrives at the resort. It does not seem fair (I know, life isn't fair) that someone who makes a reservations 11 months out with a request for a certain location loses out to someone who made a reservation 5 months out without a prior room request. Not to mention a non DVC member getting a better room than a member. From a customer service standpoint I think this is an excellent idea.

[Carol]

I agree there should either be separate booking categories or they should give the best rooms based on when the reservation was made not when a person arrives at the resort. It does not seem fair (I know, life isn't fair) that someone who makes a reservations 11 months out with a request for a certain location loses out to someone who made a reservation 5 months out without a prior room request. Not to mention a non DVC member getting a better room than a member. From a customer service standpoint I think this is an excellent idea.
I agree with you, but there are apparently tons of people who do not. I remember threads (on this board and others) where people said it was more important to get into a room right away than getting a request.

DVC used to preassign all the rooms and when they did, they granted requests based on when you booked (when they could). But then they said too many people complained about having to wait for their room (even though they knew check in was after 4 pm) and clogged up the lobbies waiting for their room to be released. SoDisney went to a room ready policy which is basically, first come, first served. If a room is clean and ready when you arrive, they offer you that first. So that's why late comers now get the leftovers.

[suecait]

So if they clean the Carousel first???? I'll check in late then.:duck:

[mark&sue]

They don't need to clean the carousel villas first because they are always sitting there waiting for someone to take them!!!


Susan

[CarolA]

But how would it affect you if they added the categories? Many support this, actually I'd say most support this. You'd still be free to book standard category and have the crap shoot you two seem to like.

As for the "not even a mile" comment, well, huffing that distance with a young family in tow is not fun especially with all the hiking you do at the parks. It also makes renting a car a necessity.

I'm still confused why you oppose this????? How does it hurt you?


DAVE


If location is that imporatant I don't think DVC is the best result. This becomes an issue because it creates this huge mess of folks calling right at 9 am to "guarantee" the best location.... Not to mention that if they do adjust the points then it does impact me. When everyone decides that 'opps we really wanted cheap points' then I wind up paying MORE for something I didn't care about. Try getting one of those Standard view rooms at BWV!!!

I am willing to deal if it's part of the intial package like AKV, but to change the playing field later doesnt' seem fair! You knew the risk when you purchased.

[bpmorley]

I'm not a big fan of this idea. I think it will just add confusion when trying to book a room.

[OttawaWendy]

If location is that imporatant I don't think DVC is the best result. This becomes an issue because it creates this huge mess of folks calling right at 9 am to "guarantee" the best location.... Not to mention that if they do adjust the points then it does impact me. When everyone decides that 'opps we really wanted cheap points' then I wind up paying MORE for something I didn't care about. Try getting one of those Standard view rooms at BWV!!!

I am willing to deal if it's part of the intial package like AKV, but to change the playing field later doesnt' seem fair! You knew the risk when you purchased.


I understand this logic and it seems fair to me.

However, I think we may need to separate the concepts of booking categories from point values. I don't think (for reasons I've posted earlier in this thread) that they are allowed to change the point values that severely so as to create a "premium" category as reflected in points.

I do think that separate booking categories, without messing with points, is entirely possible. I would support this. Essentially it would mean that you would have a booking in a "Springs studio" for example, instead of just a studio. It surely must be slightly more difficult to organize for them, but in the age of computers, I can't imagine this can't be overcome.

[Daitcher]

If location is that imporatant I don't think DVC is the best result. This becomes an issue because it creates this huge mess of folks calling right at 9 am to "guarantee" the best location.... Not to mention that if they do adjust the points then it does impact me. When everyone decides that 'opps we really wanted cheap points' then I wind up paying MORE for something I didn't care about. Try getting one of those Standard view rooms at BWV!!!

I am willing to deal if it's part of the intial package like AKV, but to change the playing field later doesnt' seem fair! You knew the risk when you purchased.



Didn't seem fair to me when they decided to expand SSR to it's current monstrosity either but they went ahead and did that. They COMPLETELY altered what I had bought. Now THAT wasn't fair.

Acting upon a request of the members....... I'd have to disagee that it would be unfair. Nothing would change for the average owner. Just book a room and be done with it. Points wouldn't changed a bit for the majority of rooms. Those wanting the horrible Courosel location to save points have the option of booking early to secure one. Those wanting to pay more for the DTD Congress Park view could do so. Everyone else just book a room and see what happens at check in.

Like the majority, I'm all for anything that can make SSR more of a high demand resort. This could accomplish a little of that.

As for OttawaWendy's insistence that they cannot alter the points, she is dead wrong and I've shown it over and over that they can and they will if this plans goes ahead as I suspect it will. Why she insists it can't be done is beyond me but to each his/her own I guess.:veryconfu

I've said enough here. The majority want this so be ready it is happening.


DAVE

[tomandrobin]

Didn't seem fair to me when they decided to expand SSR to it's current monstrosity either but they went ahead and did that. They COMPLETELY altered what I had bought. Now THAT wasn't fair.

DAVE

What about the first phase owners of Vero Beach? They went the other way and cancelled the other phases. Plus sold off the property to a third party. now they can't expand the resort even if they wanted too.

[OttawaWendy]

About the BWV:

When they made the Boardwalk view a separate booking category, no point changes were made. They just made certain rooms overlooking the Boardwalk and the lake a separate booking category from the other rooms.

When they decided to make a separate category for certain rooms overlooking the resort entrance and driveway (Standard View), they DID change the points. But when they did that, the resort was a long way from selling out. They actually reduced the total number of points they originally planned to sell to make that happen.



About "unit":

According to the POS, DVC can't change the total number of points to reserve a unit for an entire year. But a unit in that case is NOT a single room. It is defined in the POS and varies according to the resort. It can be a building or a portion of a building or a group of buildings. To the best of my knowledge it always includes more than one single room.



About OKW:

The reallocation there adjusted points between weekends and weekdays and between seasons, so I don't think the unit thing was much of an impediment. They pretty much did the same adjustment ofr everything. Note that when they decided to make a separate category for the buildings near to the Hospitality House, no point changes were made. Probably because the unit thing would have been a problem. (My opinion. I have no info on how they did this. As far as why, I think they did it for the same reason they did the Boardwalk view at the BWV. Too many people making a fuss at check in if they didn't get this area).

As for OttawaWendy's insistence that they cannot alter the points, she is dead wrong and I've shown it over and over that they can and they will if this plans goes ahead as I suspect it will. Why she insists it can't be done is beyond me but to each his/her own I guess.:veryconfu

DAVE

My answer is based on Carol's answer, which is completely in line with what I have been told. (This was a very specific point for me when I bought because I wanted to be sure my points weren't getting eaten by inflation - i.e. a studio for a day in January costs 12 points in 2005 but 45 points in 2050).

They may define unit broadly, and they can rearrange points within a unit however defined, and between weekends and weekdays, and between seasons, but they can't change the overall number of points in a unit.

I am making an assumption that a unit can be no bigger than one of the twelve SSR buildings, or at least doesn't extend to buildings in separate sections. Yes, its an assumption but I think it's a generous one. I am fairly confident that "unit" is defined as something smaller than that. So a unit has a given number of points for every Villa within it for the whole year. Let's say it is 2,000,000 for the purpose of this example. They can't reallocate points to make the Springs building worth 2,200,000 points for the year and a Carousel building 1,800,000 points for the year.

I believe the only way they could do this is if buildings from more than one area are defined as one single "unit" from POS.

Maybe I'm wrong, but no one has offered evidence to the contrary.

[Daitcher]

My answer is based on Carol's answer, which is completely in line with what I have been told. (This was a very specific point for me when I bought because I wanted to be sure my points weren't getting eaten by inflation - i.e. a studio for a day in January costs 12 points in 2005 but 45 points in 2050).

They may define unit broadly, and they can rearrange points within a unit however defined, and between weekends and weekdays, and between seasons, but they can't change the overall number of points in a unit.

I am making an assumption that a unit can be no bigger than one of the twelve SSR buildings, or at least doesn't extend to buildings in separate sections. Yes, its an assumption but I think it's a generous one. I am fairly confident that "unit" is defined as something smaller than that. So a unit has a given number of points for every Villa within it for the whole year. Let's say it is 2,000,000 for the purpose of this example. They can't reallocate points to make the Springs building worth 2,200,000 points for the year and a Carousel building 1,800,000 points for the year.

I believe the only way they could do this is if buildings from more than one area are defined as one single "unit" from POS.

Maybe I'm wrong, but no one has offered evidence to the contrary.



I've given evidence to the contrary you are just choosing to ignore it. They have done this already with OKW & BWV. Stop thinking abou this unit thing you are so hung up on.

Simple as this, take points away from Carousel section and add that same amount to Congress Park building with a DTD view. Done! That is it and it can and will be done. This simple adjustment does nothing to alter the toal points required it simply shifts them. They shift yearly so this is nothing new.


DAVE

[Daitcher]

What about the first phase owners of Vero Beach? They went the other way and cancelled the other phases. Plus sold off the property to a third party. now they can't expand the resort even if they wanted too.


Well, the question would be did those owners lose anything? In my SSR example I lost any Home Resort advantage there. It isn't needed to get in after the expansion so they in efffect impacted demand and lowered my future resale value for that resort.

With VB, they actually added demand by reducing the capacity of that resort. Did any features get cut out? That could be a factor such as a redution in the number of Beach cottages affecting an owners ability to get one, etc, etc.


DAVE

[tomandrobin]

I am not an expert on Vero Beach, but I thought that the did lose amenities that were suppose go to be built with the other phases.

I know that SSR expanded from the intitial release. The Grand Stand was part of that expansion, which I feel really enhances the resort. The Carousel section should not have been built at all. So to me, it was a win/lose situation.

DVC keeps trying to up the appeal of SSR. The Grandstand Pool and bar is nice. They did add the Turf Club to the resort. I think that with the sudden interest from DVC talking to members about creating room categories is good. If THV becomes part of DVC, that will help too.

But if THV does happen at SSR, it will only worsen Carousel sections appeal.

[JimP]

DVC keeps trying to up the appeal of SSR.

A simple footbridge (or bike/golf cart bridge) from CP to RFC in DTD would work wonders. The distance is not very far either.

/Jim

[tomandrobin]

A simple footbridge (or bike/golf cart bridge) from CP to RFC in DTD would work wonders. The distance is not very far either.

/Jim

I think the reason for no direct bridge is it would be difficult for Disney to maintain/control non-guests from using the resort.

SSR already appeals to us, I was just pointing out that DVC is listening to members and meet thier expectations (with-in reason). SSR is not for everyone, but I like to eat those smoked turkey legs too.

[JimP]

I think the reason for no direct bridge is it would be difficult for Disney to maintain/control non-guests from using the resort.

Tom,

I respectfully disagree. The same could be said for Epcot guests using BCV/BWV. The fact is that the pathway from those resorts to International Gateway greatly enhances the desireability of those resorts... and the vast majority of people walking that pathway probably are clueless that they actually cross a busy road along the way. I think that was a brilliant piece of engineering... and wish they put the same energy (and dollars) into the integration of DTD and SSR.

/Jim

[carolina_yankee]

A simple footbridge (or bike/golf cart bridge) from CP to RFC in DTD would work wonders. The distance is not very far either.

/Jim

Given the cost of constructing a footbridge over a lake, how much time would it really save over walking the existing path? I can get to rainforest cafe from CP in 5-10 minutes without breaking a sweat unless it's 95 degrees in July (and then, I would prefer the shaded walkway rather than an open to the sun bridge).

Dirk

[carolina_yankee]

I've given evidence to the contrary you are just choosing to ignore it. They have done this already with OKW & BWV. Stop thinking abou this unit thing you are so hung up on.

Simple as this, take points away from Carousel section and add that same amount to Congress Park building with a DTD view. Done! That is it and it can and will be done. This simple adjustment does nothing to alter the toal points required it simply shifts them. They shift yearly so this is nothing new.


DAVE

Dave, just a question because I'm not an expert on this. Carousel has the smallest number of units (2 bldgs). If they reduce points for carousel, would they be limited to increasing points for only 2 bldgs worth of Congress Park? If so, I would say do the two buildings that flank the pool, or else two of the 3 buildings that make up Springs.

If that's not the case, then I wonder if it makes more sense to lower points for Carousel and increase points for Springs? Since Springs has fewer rooms and a lot of people really crave close to Carriage House and the feature pool, it might actually be harder to get a place there than Congress Park . . .

Dirk

[JimP]

Given the cost of constructing a footbridge over a lake, how much time would it really save over walking the existing path? I can get to rainforest cafe from CP in 5-10 minutes without breaking a sweat unless it's 95 degrees in July (and then, I would prefer the shaded walkway rather than an open to the sun bridge).

Dirk

Dirk,

I do not think that time is the signifcant issue. I think it has to do with integrating the resort into DTD. In other words... not TIME... but instead ASTHETICS.

When you walk out to LBV Blvd... you are totally leaving the resort. In fact... with those ugly Hotel Blvd builldings directly across the street... for all practical purposes you are leaving WDW!

They had (and still have) a perfect opportunity to blend and integrate the two areas... which would add value to SSR. The same argument could be made about the International Gateway... or even the walkway from BWV to DHS. Also.. at Disneyland... the DL Hotel, and PP hotel used to be across the street from DW. Technically, the street is still there... but one would never know it when they walk across because of the way they built the DTD area of DL.

Add in the fact that the walk from DTD to SSR is probably not the safest place at night. There are lots of trees, bushes, etc... and light traffic. A walkway directly between DTD and CP would improve that as well.

/Jim

[cheapmom]

Carolina_Yankee- I know you were asking Dave- but let me just pt in my 2 cents here. I am hoping they don't even change point charts and just do booking categories (like the HH category at OKW). If they do change point values, you make an good point- Carousel is so small that it would be hard to redispurse the points- unless they made a big reduction at Carousel and a tiny increase on DTD view rooms and maybe certain buildings designated as "Close to Carriage House" in Springs and Grandstand. Another choice, if they are going to reduce points is to include Paddocks (or the far buildings - some of those buildings have a pretty stinky location) in the reduced point category so it would be easier to balance.

Here is a totally crazy idea that has it pros and cons: Reallocate points in the Carousel so that every night of the week is the same number of points- People would book there for long weekends or 9 day trips with weekend bookends. Thereby leaving more rooms in the desireable areas for others who will pay more for the weekend nights in the good spots. Sure - NOBODY is going to book a Sun-Thurs there- but since it is only 2 buildings- they shouldn't have any trouble filling it with guests staying several days. Fri-Tues, Wed-Sat... Shoot, I might even book a long weekend there if they did this.

The leveling of points doesn't work on a large scale- as DVC wants to even out occupancy by enticing you to stay weekdays when points are lower- but on this small scale- it just might be a way to make people want to stay in Carousel WITHOUT having to change any other point charts around. Suddenly there is a small way to do a long weekend with your DVC and not blow half your year's points- now there is a way to make SSR's 11 month window valuable. Only 2 building available at this point structure- or the option of booking the dtd view- or Springs... Hmmmm- I think it is worth some thought.

[Daitcher]

Dave, just a question because I'm not an expert on this. Carousel has the smallest number of units (2 bldgs). If they reduce points for carousel, would they be limited to increasing points for only 2 bldgs worth of Congress Park? If so, I would say do the two buildings that flank the pool, or else two of the 3 buildings that make up Springs.

If that's not the case, then I wonder if it makes more sense to lower points for Carousel and increase points for Springs? Since Springs has fewer rooms and a lot of people really crave close to Carriage House and the feature pool, it might actually be harder to get a place there than Congress Park . . .

Dirk


They would be limted to those point totals. They could reduce the Carousel buildings accross the board and then divy up those points how they see fit for the prime views. Totals couldn't change though.

I'm not saying they will do this I'm just saying they can. I do feel the membership wants this and DVC has been receptive in the past especially at SSR so I think we'll see this happen. They listend to us and added the Turf Club and then they listened again and added something more than a quiet pool with the Grandstand pool. Those were not in the original plans so they listened and added accordingly. Whether they keep the points the same remains to be seen. I have no problem either way but it would be nice to have an option to get those views/locations. It would be a reason to own SSR.


DAVE

[carolina_yankee]

Dirk,

I do not think that time is the signifcant issue. I think it has to do with integrating the resort into DTD. In other words... not TIME... but instead ASTHETICS.

When you walk out to LBV Blvd... you are totally leaving the resort. In fact... with those ugly Hotel Blvd builldings directly across the street... for all practical purposes you are leaving WDW!

They had (and still have) a perfect opportunity to blend and integrate the two areas... which would add value to SSR. The same argument could be made about the International Gateway... or even the walkway from BWV to DHS. Also.. at Disneyland... the DL Hotel, and PP hotel used to be across the street from DW. Technically, the street is still there... but one would never know it when they walk across because of the way they built the DTD area of DL.

Add in the fact that the walk from DTD to SSR is probably not the safest place at night. There are lots of trees, bushes, etc... and light traffic. A walkway directly between DTD and CP would improve that as well.

/Jim
All good points - but the International Gateway and Disneyland Hotels have a more natural connection to their respective parks and Downtown Disney. (And for what it's worth - Paradise Pier actually is on the street, whereas Disneyland Hotel isn't - but you're right, the difference is notable).

I wonder if there's a way to tie in Downtown Disney with footbridges - I'm not sure that would look anything other than contrived. Now, maybe if they made a boardwalk or esplanade of some kind . . . If I were doing it, I might want to ramp up the water taxi service instead and have a dock at Congress Park, with water taxis leaving every 5 minutes. Maybe like the way the taxis work for St. Maartin, where the cruise ship pier is a significant distance from Phillipsburg harbor.

Dirk

[carolina_yankee]

Carolina_Yankee- I know you were asking Dave- but let me just pt in my 2 cents here. I am hoping they don't even change point charts and just do booking categories (like the HH category at OKW). If they do change point values, you make an good point- Carousel is so small that it would be hard to redispurse the points- unless they made a big reduction at Carousel and a tiny increase on DTD view rooms and maybe certain buildings designated as "Close to Carriage House" in Springs and Grandstand. Another choice, if they are going to reduce points is to include Paddocks (or the far buildings - some of those buildings have a pretty stinky location) in the reduced point category so it would be easier to balance.

Here is a totally crazy idea that has it pros and cons: Reallocate points in the Carousel so that every night of the week is the same number of points- People would book there for long weekends or 9 day trips with weekend bookends. Thereby leaving more rooms in the desireable areas for others who will pay more for the weekend nights in the good spots. Sure - NOBODY is going to book a Sun-Thurs there- but since it is only 2 buildings- they shouldn't have any trouble filling it with guests staying several days. Fri-Tues, Wed-Sat... Shoot, I might even book a long weekend there if they did this.

The leveling of points doesn't work on a large scale- as DVC wants to even out occupancy by enticing you to stay weekdays when points are lower- but on this small scale- it just might be a way to make people want to stay in Carousel WITHOUT having to change any other point charts around. Suddenly there is a small way to do a long weekend with your DVC and not blow half your year's points- now there is a way to make SSR's 11 month window valuable. Only 2 building available at this point structure- or the option of booking the dtd view- or Springs... Hmmmm- I think it is worth some thought.

That's a creative solution. For the most part, I don't care what the points situation is. I would just prefer to know that I'm not going to be in Carousel - or that I am, and then I can make adjustments to my vacation plans as needed.

Dirk

[carolina_yankee]

They would be limted to those point totals. They could reduce the Carousel buildings accross the board and then divy up those points how they see fit for the prime views. Totals couldn't change though.

I'm not saying they will do this I'm just saying they can. I do feel the membership wants this and DVC has been receptive in the past especially at SSR so I think we'll see this happen. They listend to us and added the Turf Club and then they listened again and added something more than a quiet pool with the Grandstand pool. Those were not in the original plans so they listened and added accordingly. Whether they keep the points the same remains to be seen. I have no problem either way but it would be nice to have an option to get those views/locations. It would be a reason to own SSR.


DAVE

This is the one area where I see your point about expanding SSR beyond the original plans. They just didn't take into account balancing out access to amenities accordingly. I think they did fine Grandstand, but I think they really botched it with Carousel - and that creates all this angst.

Personally, I've stayed at SSR 4 times and have never had a bad location - but how long tell my luck runs out? !!

Dirk

[JimP]

All good points - but the International Gateway and Disneyland Hotels have a more natural connection to their respective parks and Downtown Disney. (And for what it's worth - Paradise Pier actually is on the street, whereas Disneyland Hotel isn't - but you're right, the difference is notable).

I wonder if there's a way to tie in Downtown Disney with footbridges - I'm not sure that would look anything other than contrived. Now, maybe if they made a boardwalk or esplanade of some kind . . . If I were doing it, I might want to ramp up the water taxi service instead and have a dock at Congress Park, with water taxis leaving every 5 minutes. Maybe like the way the taxis work for St. Maartin, where the cruise ship pier is a significant distance from Phillipsburg harbor.

Dirk

Dirk,

You make me feel so smart when you start agreeing with me ;)


If you look at the maps... it is remarkably close from the east side of CP to RFC. The "lake" really gets narrow as you go east. I agree that if they were to build a boardwalk... with another restaurant or so over the water... then it would be even better than a footbridge.

IMHO... they key thing would be to integrate SSR into DtD... which would increase the value of SSR.

/Jim

[greenban]

Dirk,

You make me feel so smart when you start agreeing with me ;)


If you look at the maps... it is remarkably close from the east side of CP to RFC. The "lake" really gets narrow as you go east. I agree that if they were to build a boardwalk... with another restaurant or so over the water... then it would be even better than a footbridge.

IMHO... they key thing would be to integrate SSR into DtD... which would increase the value of SSR.

/Jim

Or allow the hooligans and thugs from DTD to easily 'migrate' into SSR to continue their merriment or crimes depending on your POV.

-Tony

[JimP]

Or allow the hooligans and thugs from DTD to easily 'migrate' into SSR to continue their merriment or crimes depending on your POV.

-Tony

Yea... but they can do that now... and hide in the bushes along the walkway to/from SSR.

/Jim

[cheapmom]

Greenban- did I read that someone told you this is happening? (booking cats at ssr)

[Daitcher]

That's a creative solution. For the most part, I don't care what the points situation is. I would just prefer to know that I'm not going to be in Carousel - or that I am, and then I can make adjustments to my vacation plans as needed.

Dirk



And this is exactly how the majority feels. We don't care how they do it, just do it!



DAVE

[cheapmom]

And this is exactly how the majority feels. We don't care how they do it, just do it!
DAVE

I couldn't agree more Carolina_Yankee and Daitcher!

Question for CarolA: You said that you complained when they implemented the HH category at OKW. What did you say in your email? How did DVC respond?
Also- just curious- where do you own?

I can see a reason to be against this if you are late planner who still wants a shot at a good room... but I am still not sure I get your beef with this. You say they are changing the rules in the middle of the game or something? But they aren't - the rules are defined in the POS- everything else is subject to DVD's discretion, right? By doing this they aren't changing anything they promised- just adapting to increase member satisfaction. A program willing to adapt to please its members is much better than a rigid program with management that isn't open to suggetions and improvements, in my opinion.

[tomandrobin]

They just didn't take into account balancing out access to amenities accordingly. I think they did fine Grandstand, but I think they really botched it with Carousel - and that creates all this angst.


This is exactly how I feel about SSR. My family loves everything about SSR, except those two orphaned buildings. Considering there are not any convient amenities, including laudry facilities, those building point requirements should have been lower.

Grand Stand was added last, but to us is the best section.

[bpmorley]

I don't think you're going to see any of this until there is a decision made on the Treehouse Villas'.

[carolina_yankee]

Or allow the hooligans and thugs from DTD to easily 'migrate' into SSR to continue their merriment or crimes depending on your POV.

-Tony

I think that's actually a very, very important POV given what can happen at DTD, and Jim P is right about the safety aspect between the end of CP and the bus depot at Marketplace.

If there were an esplanade/boardwalk or just a linking bridge, they could control access with a gated entry, just like the plan to do with the connecting bridge between The Toaster and the Sandwich (otherwise known as CR and BLT). It would still take a security guard, but not that much more expensive in the grand scheme of things. I would say limit access to folks with room keys and ID.

Dirk

[JimP]

Here are some Goggle earth pictures to help visualize what I am talking about.

In the picture below: the Blue highlight is the current path from SSR's Congress Park (CP) to Downtown Disney DtD. The Green highlight is the approximate location of the footbridge that I am proposing. It could be done in a way the totally intergrates SSR with DtD... similar to what they have done with Epcot resorts and Epcot center with International Gateway.

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD1.jpg


The Red area circled below is the "dangerous" zone that we are discussing. There are trees, bushes, etc... and it is dark. There is no way that I would want my wife or daughters walking through there after dark... when other foot traffic is low.


http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD2.jpg


The Purple area circled below is anything but magical. IMHO... it is about as unmagical as taking a walk down SR192 in Kissimmee. The old ugly "hotel row" buildings are directly across the street... you smell exaust fumes... etc.


http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD3.jpg


The level of improvement and value it would have added to SSR is huge compared to the miniscule cost savings they enjoyed. The fact that DVC did not build a footbridge across to DtD IMHO showed a total disrespect to the resort.

/Jim

[carolina_yankee]

You're right - that is fairly direct and wouldn't get in the way of the principle water traffic. I still like the idea of a water taxi, though, if we're going to dream. :) :sailing:

Dirk

[Daitcher]

Here are some Goggle earth pictures to help visualize what I am talking about.

In the picture below: the Blue highlight is the current path from SSR's Congress Park (CP) to Downtown Disney DtD. The Green highlight is the approximate location of the footbridge that I am proposing. It could be done in a way the totally intergrates SSR with DtD... similar to what they have done with Epcot resorts and Epcot center with International Gateway.

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD1.jpg


The Red area circled below is the "dangerous" zone that we are discussing. There are trees, bushes, etc... and it is dark. There is no way that I would want my wife or daughters walking through there after dark... when other foot traffic is low.


http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD2.jpg


The Purple area circled below is anything but magical. IMHO... it is about as unmagical as taking a walk down SR192 in Kissimmee. The old ugly "hotel row" buildings are directly across the street... you smell exaust fumes... etc.


http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD3.jpg


The level of improvement and value it would have added to SSR is huge compared to the miniscule cost savings they enjoyed. The fact that DVC did not build a footbridge across to DtD IMHO showed a total disrespect to the resort.

/Jim




Nice stuff Jim. I'd love to see that happen.

Remeber the great fireworks viewing area they touted during sales? What fireworks? They stopped that a while back. Maybe they can "give" us the bridge and booking categories to offset the lack of demand there. Heck throw in THV if they must. Get us excited about SSR!!!


DAVE

[nono]

The other bridge needed is at the left end of Congress Park -- see how the walkway ends in Jim's pics? Why can't I walk right over to the tennis/basketball area or more directly to the Turf Club or the water taxi??

[bpmorley]

Is that bridge really going to make a difference? That will save, maybe, 4 minutes off the walk. I'll take the fireworks back instead

[cheapmom]

The other bridge needed is at the left end of Congress Park -- see how the walkway ends in Jim's pics? Why can't I walk right over to the tennis/basketball area or more directly to the Turf Club or the water taxi??

ITA- nono!

That is a cool idea about the foot bridge, but I really don't mind the walkway as it is now. You are along that hotel road for 2 seconds- and if you look over the bridge there are always turtles swimming around. It isn't so bad. Walkway like you proposed would be better for sure but I still do like the walk to Marketplace.

[JimP]

Is that bridge really going to make a difference? That will save, maybe, 4 minutes off the walk. I'll take the fireworks back instead

As said earlier... it has nothing to do with the time required to walk. It has to do with asthetics of the resort... and integrating SSR into DtD to drive up the value of SSR.

/Jim

[JimP]

The other bridge needed is at the left end of Congress Park -- see how the walkway ends in Jim's pics? Why can't I walk right over to the tennis/basketball area or more directly to the Turf Club or the water taxi??

Here is a diagram. You want the yellow bridge right?

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD4.jpg

/Jim

[nono]

Here is a diagram. You want the yellow bridge right?

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/SSR-DtD4.jpg

/Jim

Yes sir. Why should there be only one way to the large complex that is the center of the resort? Also, that yellow bridge would mean that people would be away from cars. :woohoo: It simply makes the complex more cohesive.

[bpmorley]

I like the idea of where the yellow bridge would be. I like to jog around the resort and that would make for an easier run. I always get down to that area and then have to turn back or go back through the parking lot.

[tomandrobin]

I think the yellow bridge would be great too.

[greenban]

I think the yellow bridge would be great too.

Since so many MODS are actively participating in this fascinating thread, I must interrupt the festivities for a moment...........

MODs (at least MANly MODs) don't do stinking yellow bridges, or pink either for the matter!

Now Blue, Black, Green, Bright Shiny Red ( :coolcar: ) those are all good color choices for a MOD. Fuscia, is not so good!

-Tony

Please resume your bridge discussions........

[carolina_yankee]

Yes sir. Why should there be only one way to the large complex that is the center of the resort? Also, that yellow bridge would mean that people would be away from cars. :woohoo: It simply makes the complex more cohesive.

So, wer'e going to start bombarding DVC with requests for booking categories at SSR, a green bridge to Rain Forest Cafe, and a Yellow Bridge to Turf Club? I love it!!

NoNo, totally agree on the yellow bridge, btw. Every time I'm there I'm wonder why they didn't do that.

Dirk

[cheapmom]

I really think they need to improve the entire area around the ferry dock. It looks like you are in a back-lot somewhere. Like you accidentally ended up in an area that is meant for employees only. I like the idea of the footbridge from CP.

[dsruton]

I received a return phine call today from DVC. They wanted to assure me that they would add me to the list of those in favor of booking categories. They also went on to say that this had already been done at OKW. Looks like we may get it soon. :bouncingg

[bpmorley]

I really think they need to improve the entire area around the ferry dock. It looks like you are in a back-lot somewhere. Like you accidentally ended up in an area that is meant for employees only. I like the idea of the footbridge from CP.

I think me & DW have said the same thing about the boat dock. Looks like an accident. Did anyone mention to DVC that they would like to see something like Stormalong Bay @ SSR?

[cheapmom]

We have 50 signatures!:jumpingbe

[BWV Dreamin]

Since so many MODS are actively participating in this fascinating thread, I must interrupt the festivities for a moment...........

MODs (at least MANly MODs) don't do stinking yellow bridges, or pink either for the matter!

Now Blue, Black, Green, Bright Shiny Red ( :coolcar: ) those are all good color choices for a MOD. Fuscia, is not so good!

-Tony

Please resume your bridge discussions........

:ROTFL::ROTFL::ROTFL:

[tinker_me_happy]

I think me & DW have said the same thing about the boat dock. Looks like an accident. Did anyone mention to DVC that they would like to see something like Stormalong Bay @ SSR?

Add a few bridges and put in an AWESOME pool? Would the be asking too much?? I'd love to see that !

[bpmorley]

Add a few bridges and put in an AWESOME pool? Would the be asking too much?? I'd love to see that !

I don't think it's asking too much. Maybe we can start a petition for that. They have one for booking categories.

[StotheK]

I'd be all for a new pool and bridges. But I gotta ask, what's the incentive for Disney to do so? SSR is just about sold out, so it's not like they'd get more people to buy. Sure we'd be the ones actually paying for it with our fees, but