Poly DVC rumor

[rlcarmichael]

Talking with MS last week and I mentioned that I had heard a rumor. Poly is my fav place to stay which I don't now because of the $95 reservation fee...and while I understood that she could neither confirm or deny, I was wondering if she had heard anything like that.

She laughed and said it was a good thing that I couldn't see her face but she had heard the same rumor. She also said they have been hearing ALOT about the $95 reservation fee and that was being reviewed. I pointed out to her that you were ALREADY paying a premium price in points and on a 1 or 2 night stay it would put you higher that RACK rate!

I'm not sure where they'd put it but that didn't stop them at the Contempary.

[2nd Star]

I like that they are reviewing the $95 fee.

[JimP]

I like that they are reviewing the $95 fee.

The $95 fee does not particularly bother me... for a long stay it is negligable. It is the point values that stop me. No way am I willing to use my DVC points for anything except a DVC resort unless it was an emergency!

/Jim

[I'mNoPrince]

I had also heard or read that all the Deluxs were going to try to incorporate DVC in. For DVC it's puts people where they would like to stay and for CRO it opens an entire different Class of Rooms for them to use.

I think so far with the others they have been a hugh welcome so why not try them all.BLT will be the True test to see what will follow.

The 95$ is no biggie to us as we Only use our Points for DVC resorts.

[cheapmom]

The $95 fee does not particularly bother me... for a long stay it is negligable. It is the point values that stop me. No way am I willing to use my DVC points for anything except a DVC resort unless it was an emergency!

/Jim

Ditto. I really don't intend on using my points for a non-WDW resort- but on principal- it bothers me that they said the reason they instituted the $95 fee was a BENEFIT to our membership because it was making things more simplified for us. I wonder how many thank you notes they got for that wonderful new perk?

[AFMom]

Poly DVC - wow.... that would be so nice. I'm sure though - that it'll be a long time coming with BLT (I hate that name) and GCV, and AKV still seliing..... but still....... :woohoodan

[rlcarmichael]

Ditto. I really don't intend on using my points for a non-WDW resort- but on principal- it bothers me that they said the reason they instituted the $95 fee was a BENEFIT to our membership because it was making things more simplified for us. I wonder how many thank you notes they got for that wonderful new perk?

A LOT but they need to keep hearing it. Send them one and let them know... dvcmembersatisfactionteam@disneyvacationclub.com

Quite a few for exactly the same reason. My whole gripe is just that - it's not the deal we were promised.

If the general public rents a room at a deluxe or a DVC studio, there isn't THAT much difference if any. But when we use points, we pay ALMOST rack rate (based on annual fee for points + $2 per point cost of points over life) so we are ALREADY paying a premium to stay off DVC. And if you consider the amount you can rent the points for you are paying over rack rate PLUS the "reservation fee."

Granted $95 isn't bad spread over a week or two week stay but for a one or two night it stinks. I take more short trips so it's a bigger issue to me.

[JimP]

Ditto. I really don't intend on using my points for a non-WDW resort- but on principal- it bothers me that they said the reason they instituted the $95 fee was a BENEFIT to our membership because it was making things more simplified for us. I wonder how many thank you notes they got for that wonderful new perk?

OK... here is a form letter we can send in:

Dear DVC,

As a member of DVC, I would like to thank you for implementing the $95 fee for making reservations at the Polynesian Resort. I used to be so confused why I had to pay the fee at other properties, but not at the Polynesian. You have no idea how much this has simplified my life.

Also... please find the bank number to our savings account. It would be so much easier if you would just take some money anytime you felt that Disney needed more revenue.

By the way... thank you for making my DVC ownership such a magical experience... and please keep the pixie dust coming.

Sincerely,

Your name goes here
Your bank number goes here

/Jim

[rlcarmichael]

Also... please find the bank number to our savings account. It would be so much easier if you would just take some money anytime you felt that Disney needed more revenue.

:ROTFL:

[Laxmom]

:lmbo::lmbo::lmbo::lmbo:

[Mary]

It is very funny, but also quite disturbing to be treated like this by disney. I did not buy a timeshare--I have always been leary of timeshares--I bought Disney's sterling reputation. Mary

[JimP]

It is very funny, but also quite disturbing to be treated like this by disney. I did not buy a timeshare--I have always been leary of timeshares--I bought Disney's sterling reputation. Mary

Mary,

Despite how you look at it... DVC is in fact a timeshare. In fact, it is one of the best timeshares available. It is a great deal if you want to stay onsite in DVC resorts. It is not a good deal if you want to use it for any other purpose.

/Jim

[Laxmom]

First and foremost, Disney wants, likes and needs to make money. I understand people being upset about the $95 fee - I also won't use my points that way. It could be worse. Marriott charges and exchange fee to trade into other Marriotts-at least DVC doesn't charge for that.

[cheapmom]

Yes- I think most timeshares charge a fee if you stay anywhere other than your home resort. (Is that right) I would be bummed if they started charging for swapping throughout DVC- that would stink.

[Laxmom]

Totally agree! Like I said, I understand the frustration. It takes away from the benefit of using points that way but it could be worse.

[TinkLover]

I would love to stay at some of the deluxe resorts, (poly, cont) but the fee will deter me just on prinicpal. Well, just my 2cents....

[Mary]

Jim, you are right of course. I think I have gotten used to being treated as though I matter in the past. My last trip (in April) at OKW was less than satisfactory. I didn't post anything (except to mention the flying bug problem in passing) about it because I was very upset about the way we were treated regarding some dinner show tickets I had purchased, and was trying to put it out of my mind. I guess I am holding a grudge and it came out in that way. And admittedly I understand that in reality my OKW and VWL points are indeed a timeshare. Mary

[kimberh]

Now, the Poly I would consider owning, I hope this resort does become DVC. I will not stay there under the terms we have now. It is too expensive!

[Niki]

Notwithstanding the $95 fee, I feel we still get treated fairly by DVC. At Hilton, not only do you pay a fee for staying at another HGVC resort, but if you stay for less than an entire week in the type of accomodation your purchased enough points for, you have to pay a fee to stay at your home resort as well. Makes me appreciate my DVC even more.

[kiapgh23e]

Jim your bank account piece hands down is one of the funniest posts I've read. :ROTFL: But like you said I wouldnt mind paying 95 bucks, its those outragous point values to stay at non DVC. They dont mind renting our DVC rooms for a nice buck, but they give it to us when we try to stay elsewhere. I havent even stayed anywhere yet but I already have a pet peeve. Thanks whoever started this site. hahaha

[rlcarmichael]

Yes- I think most timeshares charge a fee if you stay anywhere other than your home resort. (Is that right) I would be bummed if they started charging for swapping throughout DVC- that would stink.


RCI & II charge an exchange fee. It is CONSIDERABLE less for short stays, not one size fits all. PLUS they are different companies, not your own timeshare.

If the points per night for staying at a non DVC WDW resort was comparable to a studio rate, then I'd have no problem with a reservation fee. But you pay a hefty premium in points to stay off DVC in the first place PLUS the reservation fee.

What it has done is forced more DVC owners into renting. If you want to stay non-DVC you rent points and get the DVC cash price.

[erikthewise]

There will be a Polynesian DVC. It may have come before the Contemporary had they not been facing a major rehab of the North Tower. As it is, the Polynesian and the Grand Floridian are the only remaining Deluxe resorts without a DVC component, if you think of the Yacht Club/Beach Club as one big resort. However I don't think we can expect Polynesian Villas before 2012.

[cheapmom]

RCI & II charge an exchange fee. It is CONSIDERABLE less for short stays, not one size fits all. PLUS they are different companies, not your own timeshare.

I am talking about the benefit we have to stay at any dvc resort with no exchange fee- it is my understanding that you pay an admin or exchange fee to stay anywhere but your home resort at most other timeshares- even if you are staying within your timeshare's resort collectioon- you pay a fee anywhere but your home resort.

[JimP]

I am talking about the benefit we have to stay at any dvc resort with no exchange fee- it is my understanding that you pay an admin or exchange fee to stay anywhere but your home resort at most other timeshares- even if you are staying within your timeshare's resort collectioon- you pay a fee anywhere but your home resort.

All timeshares have different programs. For example, with Marriott, you use II to exchange into other non-home Marriott resorts (there is a rumor that Marriott will drop II and bring this internal... similar to DVC). Other timeshares are much easier to use across various properties. The one I use most (Worldmark) is a points based system (like DVC)... but it does not have the concept of a home resort... so I can book stays at any of the 70+ resorts at any time without fees, up to 13 months in advance. With this timeshare I generally book weekends at the coast for most weekends of the year with no fees at all. At any given time... I generally have 50+ reservations pending.

In general... I think that DVC policies are more complex than most timeshare companies in some areas. Some examples are rigid use years... holding accounts, and especially banking/borrowing and transfer policies. OTOH... DVC is less complex than most timeshares in other areas... such as single day booking without any restrictions. Overall... I think that DVC is more complex than most overall... uncessarily so.

/Jim

[spiceycat]

disney (DVC) has the right to change at any time.

go read your contract.

they can say your home resort is your home resort and add an extra fee to trade to any resort - DVC or not.

just be very, very happy that so far they have not done this.

that is another reason to have points in the different places you want to stay - so if this ever happens you can still stay.

when the Polyn went through that last rehab - was really hoping for a DVC. instead Disney went with rehab. this was expensive - very, very expensive to rehab a building without tearing it down. So not expecting any Poly until 2018 if then. more like 2021. so don't hole your breath for one.

that say, the first dvc members were only promised ONE DVC on the monrail. This may be it.

the other thing is the new 4 seasons - this will be tough competition for the GF. and I don't think the GF is up to it. So I would expect DVC units at GF before the Polyn.

[carolina_yankee]

when the Polyn went through that last rehab - was really hoping for a DVC. instead Disney went with rehab. this was expensive - very, very expensive to rehab a building without tearing it down. So not expecting any Poly until 2018 if then. more like 2021. so don't whole your breath for one.

that say, the first dvc members were only promised ONE DVC on the monrail. This may be it.

the other thing is the new 4 seasons - this will be tough competition for the GF. and I don't think the GF is up to it. So I would expect DVC units at GF before the Polyn.Word is that there is land set aside at every resort for DVC. How that would work at Poly, I don't know. Perhaps farewell to the Luau? Given how popular the Polynesian is, I can't see them taking rooms out of inventory for DVC. They would lose money on that proposition. Instead, I think they'll figure out how to cram in a few more DVC lodges. Doesn't have to be large, and would surely sell fast.

As for the Grand Floridian - since it's so large, they might do some conversions there - but it's their flagship resort. I doubt they'll kill that status. You're right, though, Four Seasons customers probably won't be GF customers unless there are some upgrades.

Dirk

[erikthewise]

Good points spiceycat.

Several years ago when online polls about new DVC locations were popular, Polynesian was one of the most popular, usually ranking in the top 2 choices. Grand Floridian got very few votes in comparison.

The Polynesian (1971) is significantly older than the Grand Floridian (1988). It will need more refurbishing well before 2018.

Unfortunately as long as the Polynesian continues to have high occupancy rates, it makes it difficult to consider DVC there. While there is some room between Polynesian and GF (and would anyone really miss the luau?!), a DVC component would probably involve some of the western longhouses.

Not sure what the effect of the Four Seasons will be. I don't think Disney would have let them build onsite if the primary effect would be to mooch off the deluxe resorts.

[TrvlPrincess]

:laughing::laughing:

[Daitcher]

It is very funny, but also quite disturbing to be treated like this by disney. I did not buy a timeshare--I have always been leary of timeshares--I bought Disney's sterling reputation. Mary



On the contrary, you did in fact by a Timeshare. As it stands I'd say a below par one at that.:innocent:



DAVE

[Daitcher]

I am talking about the benefit we have to stay at any dvc resort with no exchange fee- it is my understanding that you pay an admin or exchange fee to stay anywhere but your home resort at most other timeshares- even if you are staying within your timeshare's resort collectioon- you pay a fee anywhere but your home resort.



Personally I'd love to see DVC go this route. It would help even out demand and give the owners of the smaller resorts a fighting chance at a ressie at or inside 7 months. As it stands now they are forced into booking way ahead or else the face the "onslaught of the SSR owners" at 7 months. This fee would make folks think long and hard about which resort they choose as their home and I think that woud be a good thing.


DAVE

[spiceycat]

The Polynesian (1971) is significantly older than the Grand Floridian (1988). It will need more refurbishing well before 2018.



the rehab was more like rebuilding - they had a mold and mildew problem with the first building.

so really thought these would go to DVC - no. they just rehab them - torn out all the inside - and only left the outside shell and start again.

expensive!!!

the newer ones Tahiti, Tokelau and Rapi Nui - are fine.

the other older building - Rarotonga, Niue, Aotearoa - did not need the rebuild - or at least not yet.

they would do nicely for a DVC building - not on the lagoon - but very, very close to CH.

the originally place to put the DVC polyn was in the lagoon area close to the Luva - but that was before the wedding chapel. Really think that is where they would have put a Polyn DVC.

would love one at Tahiti.... but don't think that is going to happen....

[newjerseynick]

Originally Posted by cheapmom :
"I am talking about the benefit we have to stay at any dvc resort with no exchange fee- it is my understanding that you pay an admin or exchange fee to stay anywhere but your home resort at most other timeshares- even if you are staying within your timeshare's resort collectioon- you pay a fee anywhere but your home resort."

Originally Posted by Daitcher:
"Personally I'd love to see DVC go this route. It would help even out demand and give the owners of the smaller resorts a fighting chance at a ressie at or inside 7 months. As it stands now they are forced into booking way ahead or else the face the "onslaught of the SSR owners" at 7 months. This fee would make folks think long and hard about which resort they choose as their home and I think that woud be a good thing."

I agree! Maybe then we could keep the riff-raff out of Vero Beach!
:snooty:

Nick

[burcs]

the "onslaught of the SSR owners"

i love this phrase.

BWAHAHAHAHAHA!

[NYDVC]

the rehab was more like rebuilding - they had a mold and mildew problem with the first building.

so really thought these would go to DVC - no. they just rehab them - torn out all the inside - and only left the outside shell and start again.

expensive!!!

the newer ones Tahiti, Tokelau and Rapi Nui - are fine.

the other older building - Rarotonga, Niue, Aotearoa - did not need the rebuild - or at least not yet.

they would do nicely for a DVC building - not on the lagoon - but very, very close to CH.

the originally place to put the DVC polyn was in the lagoon area close to the Luva - but that was before the wedding chapel. Really think that is where they would have put a Polyn DVC.

would love one at Tahiti.... but don't think that is going to happen....

I realise this would not be prime real estate, but what about the other side of thje monorail? I know its parking lot but they could dig up a parking lot and put up a destination resort. or how about towards the TTS. any room there?

[erikthewise]

"onslaught of the SSR owners" at 7 months.

Will they be carrying machetes?
:hyper::hyper::hyper:

[Daitcher]

Will they be carrying machetes?
:hyper::hyper::hyper:



No, but they are "armed" with three phones all set to speed dial MS at 9:00 at exactly 7 months.



DAVE

[newjerseynick]

Originally Posted by erikthewise:
Will they be carrying machetes?

Originally posted bt Daitcher:

No, but they are "armed" with three phones all set to speed dial MS at 9:00 at exactly 7 months.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pikers. We VBers have 4 or 5 phones locked and loaded. :cellphone

Nick

[spiceycat]

I realise this would not be prime real estate, but what about the other side of thje monorail? I know its parking lot but they could dig up a parking lot and put up a destination resort. or how about towards the TTS. any room there?

in the valet parking area? yes - that would work - but it would have to tall and right now DVC has not made any DVC attached to hotels taller than the hotel. Or pretty small. remember you are only talking about 3 stories.

[spiceycat]

here it is
<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=disney's+polynesian+reso rt+in+Orlando,+fl&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;ll=28.53774,-81.37739&amp;spn=0.30888,0.416242&amp;t=h&amp;output=embed&amp;s=A ARTsJpeTe1K5SRkAtIhC6LAwr0Dk6CuDQ"></iframe><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=disney's+polynesian+reso rt+in+Orlando,+fl&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;ll=28.53774,-81.37739&amp;spn=0.30888,0.416242&amp;t=h&amp;source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">View Larger Map</a></small>

the area where it would have gone between the Polyn and Luavu is too much to small.

and Polyn would never agreed to the area in front of Tokeula (sp) - too many guests go there to see the fireworks and EWP.

tahiti would be perfect - they could do a half box shape and put in another pool in the middle. (which this place needs) - not to mention a child's playground, outside whirlpool tub, plus a child's pool - that Polyn needs.

[spiceycat]

okay that didn't work try this one

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=disney's+polynesian+resort+in+Orlando,+fl&ie=UTF8&ll=28.405632,-81.584215&spn=0.004256,0.006609&t=h&z=17

[SevenSeasGirl]

I'm one of those who would love to see this rumor become a reality.

Although I think that a Poly DVC would sell out quicker than a GF DVC, I think that villas at the GF are more likely. It just seems like there is a little more room at the GF to expand. And if DVC is interested in offerring concierge villas as they have begun doing at AKV, the GF might be able to dedicate a few of its' concierge rooms to DVC. I'm not sure that the Poly would ever dedicate any of the concierge rooms in the Hawaii longhouse to DVC since they are so popular.

I agree with earlier posters that a DVC at the Poly might be possible if they expanded the western end of the resort. Don't know if they would want to displace the Luau, though. I think they would have to take an existing longhouse like Aotearoa and expand it up and out.

Or possibly they could create villas where the existing Rapa Nui longhouse is at the other end of the property?

It's fun to dream about.

[spiceycat]

Or possibly they could create villas where the existing Rapa Nui longhouse is at the other end of the property?

It's fun to dream about.

don't think they can - this is there main handicapped rooms.

of course since DVC does so many HC rooms - maybe they can?

[Colorado Belle]

Well, they COULD take the building between Hawaii and the other lagoon front bilg that is perpendicular to the lagoon, cut about half of it out and put in a 'connecting' building between the two lagoon front buildings (why have DVC without lagoon frontage???????) and maybe build it up to four stories. If they were done modular like the originals, it might not bother regular rentals too much while building. I always thought that perpendicular building was a weird way to build anyhow, but then, I can't get enough of a water view!!!!!

[JimP]

(why have DVC without lagoon frontage???????)

Do you mean like BCV?

/Jim

[spiceycat]

Well, they COULD take the building between Hawaii and the other lagoon front bilg that is perpendicular to the lagoon, cut about half of it out and put in a 'connecting' building between the two lagoon front buildings (why have DVC without lagoon frontage???????) and maybe build it up to four stories. If they were done modular like the originals, it might not bother regular rentals too much while building. I always thought that perpendicular building was a weird way to build anyhow, but then, I can't get enough of a water view!!!!!

think Polyn would not like it.

this is the area where they send their guest to see the fireworks and EWP for those that don't have a lagoon view.

since that is more than half the resort - this would be a problem.

[HauntedPirate]

I could see a Poly DVC selling like hotcakes. I have to question as to where they'd actually put it, though...

"Onslaught of the SSR owners"... heh... If I had the knowledge 3 years ago I have now, I'd have looked into a resale instead of buying into SSR. But hindsight is 20/20, right? Oh well... someday hopefully we'll have points at BCV and BLT and Rueben and the Clubhouse.... oops, sorry, too close to lunchtime, got my acryonyms confused with sandwiches.... :hehehehe: But seriously, I'd love to have at least some points at BCV and VWL. I loved VWL when we stayed there in 2006. The Tower would be even better for our family for at least the next decade, as we have young kids who would prefer to spend a lot of time at MK instead of other parks. On that note, monorail access would be a factor in our decision to buy/not buy into The Tower. Finances would also be a HUGE factor as well. We financed our initial 240 point DVC purchase, and are still paying on it. If things go well in the next year, we could, in theory, pay off our DVC and then have money for an additional interest.

[bavaria]

I will admit that I did not read the entire thread, just the last two pages.

Currently I have no desire to spend the cash or the points+cash to stay at the Polynesian. It doesn't hold enough appeal for me.

A new DVC product (new, not a restructuring of existing buildings like at AKV) might interest me, although I have no great need to be on the monorail.

I believe that AFMom (or CB?) envisioned on another thread south pacific style bungalows built over the water. I could see those being extremely desirable. As to space, I don't think that they could manage this unless they tore down one of the existing buildings to use the space for DVC.

That may in fact be a prudent decision if some buildings are only in a condition to last a few more years. I used to stay in the lanai rooms at the Disneyland Hotel, and one day soon it may not make sense for Disney to continue to refurbish the Polynesian rooms, but rather replace them with new build.

[HauntedPirate]

Currently I have no desire to spend the cash or the points+cash to stay at the Polynesian. It doesn't hold enough appeal for me.

That may in fact be a prudent decision if some buildings are only in a condition to last a few more years. I used to stay in the lanai rooms at the Disneyland Hotel, and one day soon it may not make sense for Disney to continue to refurbish the Polynesian rooms, but rather replace them with new build.


I agree on both points. It may come down to Disney considering the cost of a new DVC unit vs. refurbing an existing building, and where they will make the most money in the long run.

[rlcarmichael]

It is very funny, but also quite disturbing to be treated like this by disney. I did not buy a timeshare--I have always been leary of timeshares--I bought Disney's sterling reputation. Mary

EXACTLY! :iagree:

[rlcarmichael]

Update - talking with guide Friday. (BLT add on.) I mentioned Poly, and that I had heard rumors about Poly DVC. I said that I wasn't sure where they'd put it and he replied that there is PLENTY of room between Poly and GF. :cheerlead

Not quite sure where...more room on other side of GF next to MK. But then again when you consider that they took out an entire garden wing at CR and how much $$$$ DVC units produce.

[NYDVC]

Ditto. I really don't intend on using my points for a non-WDW resort- but on principal- it bothers me that they said the reason they instituted the $95 fee was a BENEFIT to our membership because it was making things more simplified for us. I wonder how many thank you notes they got for that wonderful new perk?

Yeah that was lame. I remember when I called and found out the emh were cancelled after 9/11. they said it was because guest wanted charater experiences. I said give me a break, why not just say it was a business decision. The CM just said she understood, but that was what she was told to say...:ROTFL:

[erikthewise]

Update - talking with guide Friday. (BLT add on.) I mentioned Poly, and that I had heard rumors about Poly DVC. I said that I wasn't sure where they'd put it and he replied that there is PLENTY of room between Poly and GF. :cheerlead

Not quite sure where...more room on other side of GF next to MK. But then again when you consider that they took out an entire garden wing at CR and how much $$$$ DVC units produce.

"Plenty" is an exaggeration but there is room for a small resort. Especially if they plow under the Luau Cove, which many would not miss. However the Wedding Chapel and GF Health Club will stay. They may also covert one or more of the western longhouses.

[rlcarmichael]

"Plenty" is an exaggeration but there is room for a small resort. Especially if they plow under the Luau Cove, which many would not miss. However the Wedding Chapel and GF Health Club will stay. They may also covert one or more of the western longhouses.

That would be my guess. The Luau could be moved, and some of the lake filled in to make a bigger site.

If the money is right, Disney will have no problem with converting/replacing some of the existing Poly Long houses. Although I really think that the other end by TTC would make more sense. More monorail options and those units are a LONG way from the resturants in the great hall.

[WDWFigment]

DVC at the Poly would certainly make me forget all about BLT. I like BLT, don't get me wrong, but the Poly is just in a different league.

I can't see DVC coming to GF. On the one hand, it would draw a lot of new folks to GF, but on the other, I think it would cheapen the GF experience. The GF is known outside of the Disney community as a flagship resort destination. It has unrivaled dining, a spa, and great service. I think if "timeshare" were added there, a lot of outsiders would rethink the praise GF receives. Of course, I could be totally wrong. Beach Club is still really highly regarded in the outside world, but I just think GF is "different".

Personally, I don't expect to see DVC in any monorail resort until BLT sells out, BLT2 is built, and BLT2 sells out. Where does that put us, 2017?

[gblast123]

DVC at the Poly would certainly make me forget all about BLT. I like BLT, don't get me wrong, but the Poly is just in a different league.

I can't see DVC coming to GF. On the one hand, it would draw a lot of new folks to GF, but on the other, I think it would cheapen the GF experience. The GF is known outside of the Disney community as a flagship resort destination. It has unrivaled dining, a spa, and great service. I think if "timeshare" were added there, a lot of outsiders would rethink the praise GF receives. Of course, I could be totally wrong. Beach Club is still really highly regarded in the outside world, but I just think GF is "different".

Personally, I don't expect to see DVC in any monorail resort until BLT sells out, BLT2 is built, and BLT2 sells out. Where does that put us, 2017?


BLT 3, of course.

:crazy:

[DisneyMarc]

Don't forget the that if you do attempt to book other WDW resorts (non-DVC) you are very limited in your choices, besides the $95.00 fee. We attempted to use our Dev. points to book a CR MK view room and they never had any MK views available. We are now booked for the Poly in Nov. but only garden views are available for DVC guests.
:idontgeti

[TikiTwinsDad]

That would be my guess. The Luau could be moved, and some of the lake filled in to make a bigger site.

If the money is right, Disney will have no problem with converting/replacing some of the existing Poly Long houses. Although I really think that the other end by TTC would make more sense. More monorail options and those units are a LONG way from the resturants in the great hall.

"Plenty" is an exaggeration but there is room for a small resort. Especially if they plow under the Luau Cove, which many would not miss. However the Wedding Chapel and GF Health Club will stay. They may also covert one or more of the western longhouses.

My favorite drum, so I am going to beat it! I don't need to forget about BLT - that's already forgotten in my book. :) Anyway, I assume there is room to handle a Poly (or even G Flo) resort if demand is there. The other alternative is to just expand into the TTC area and move portions of those vast parking lots further away. Talk about your Monorail access! We have stayed in Poly longhouses that are very close to the TTC and loved it.

[Mama2Matthew&Natalie]

I would also love a DVC at the Poly or GF. Of course, in light of BLT I have to ask: How high would those points be? :bugeyed: What's the maximum a single owner can have at one resort- 2000 pts? They might have to raise that to accommodate Christmas week at the GF...:jawdroppi

[Electro]

DVC at the Poly or GF is my dream come true. I would buy those points immediately!

[moonlightgraham]

As someone waiting on DVC points to close, I was intrigued to learn of the $95 fee. Previously, I have exchanged into DVC properties via II and was always assessed a $95 fee as compensation for the additional "perks" of DVC namely the transportation and DDP, etc.. I understood the rationale for the fee for exchangers but levying a fee against DVC members for non-DVC Disney resorts seems petty to me. And forking over points for standard accomodations seems a little chincy too. I imagine there was a battle between resort management and DVC management over these issues and the resort guys won.

[Daitcher]

As someone waiting on DVC points to close, I was intrigued to learn of the $95 fee. Previously, I have exchanged into DVC properties via II and was always assessed a $95 fee as compensation for the additional "perks" of DVC namely the transportation and DDP, etc.. I understood the rationale for the fee for exchangers but levying a fee against DVC members for non-DVC Disney resorts seems petty to me. And forking over points for standard accomodations seems a little chincy too. I imagine there was a battle between resort management and DVC management over these issues and the resort guys won.



That is one way to look at it.

I look at it like this: DVC has been unable to rent out rooms at DVC Resorts to the general public. They need to rent a room when someone trades out to recoup the costs associated with it. This fee at least gives them a little something should they prove unable to rent the corresponding room.

The fee doesn't impact me and it shouldn't impact most. DVC should be purchased for DVC stays only. Anything else is a poor value and if trading around is your goal look elsehwere.



DAVE

[SevenSeasGirl]

Do you really think they would tear down the Luau for a Poly DVC? That would only leave them with one dinner show, Hoop de Doo. I don't know how often the Luau sells out, so maybe they would make more money with DVC.

Also, there might be some space on the TTC end of the resort where the Tangaroo Terrace used to be. Maybe they use that for occasional meetings? Otherwise, I think it is just sitting there. They could make the Neverland Club a stand alone building and tear down the rest of the building for DVC. Rapa Nui, as another poster mentioned, has a lot of HC accessible rooms, but they could add HC rooms to other longhouses. Convert a few rooms in the Tahiti longhouse to give us a few lagoon view rooms and we're all set.

Anyone else ready to hear "Aloha and Welcome Home"?

[MickeysChicagoPals]

I'd love to hear "Aloha and welcome home" but the points to stay at the other resorts is ridiculous. Seriously, we already pay a premium, they need to keep us happy, they have our money for the next 50 years!:Paranoid:

[Daitcher]

they need to keep us happy, they have our money for the next 50 years!:Paranoid:




That is exactly why they do NOT need to worry about "keeping us happy." Exactly like you stated, they already have our money.



DAVE

[salmoneous]

I imagine there was a battle between resort management and DVC management over these issues and the resort guys won. DVC (i.e. the management company that works - supposedly - for us) enters into negotiations with the Disney's resort division. They have to figure out

1) How much the resort division should charge for DVC members to stay in their rooms

2) How the resort division should value the points they receive.

I've never seen a good answer on (1), but my understanding of (2) is that CRO takes the points, turns them into rooms, rents them for whatever they can get, keeps half, and gives DVC credit for the other half.

Seems like a really crappy deal to me, but what do I know. Is it a crappy deal because those CRO guys are awesome negotiators, or did DVC not really 100% look out for the members during the negotiating?

I bought in with my eyes open, never expecting DVC to really put the screws to the rest of Disney in negotiations. I just hope they keep things "reasonable".

[rlcarmichael]

As someone waiting on DVC points to close, I was intrigued to learn of the $95 fee. Previously, I have exchanged into DVC properties via II and was always assessed a $95 fee as compensation for the additional "perks" of DVC namely the transportation and DDP, etc.. I understood the rationale for the fee for exchangers but levying a fee against DVC members for non-DVC Disney resorts seems petty to me. And forking over points for standard accomodations seems a little chincy too. I imagine there was a battle between resort management and DVC management over these issues and the resort guys won.

The difference is that II is a 3rd party that actually makes the exchange happen. They are providing a service between 2 parties.

My gripe about the exchange fee into non-DVC locations is that you are already paying a premium in points to stay at other Disney resorts. We are paying DVC to provide what they are already required to provide us. Ok - it's a little different because one is DVC and the other is WDW. But it's still Disney. :horse:

[salmoneous]

Do you really think they would tear down the Luau for a Poly DVC? They can sell BLT for $700 million bucks. I think they would tear down their mothers house if it let them build a $700 milliion DVC buildling. Disney doesn't seem to even like being in the restaurant business (note the lack of new CS restaurants, or a new show that doesn't date to the 70's).

The only think keeping them from building a DVC at the Poly and GF is fears of killing the cash cows and all the money those two resorts bring in.

[WDWFigment]

I don't know how often the Luau sells out, so maybe they would make more money with DVC.

Spirit of Aloha sells out every night, and usually well in advance. Unlike most other dining options on property now, most people going to the luau are not on the DDP. It has a huge capacity, and minimally costs $53 (up to $62). There are two nightly shows.

Given the profitability, I can't see it being replaced. If anything, I think it would be relocated.

[NYDVC]

Spirit of Aloha sells out every night, and usually well in advance. Unlike most other dining options on property now, most people going to the luau are not on the DDP. It has a huge capacity, and minimally costs $53 (up to $62). There are two nightly shows.

Given the profitability, I can't see it being replaced. If anything, I think it would be relocated.

I have not been there in years, but I dont remember the pavillion (sp?) being anything special. relocating would make a lot of sence.

However, maybe I will be tared and feathered here, but if I never see the Hoop Dee do again I would be to disappointed. Or the laui. They have gotten stale to based on number of visits. Wish disney would put in something new and I would think the contemporary upgrades and the sandwich would of been a perfect place to do a new dinner show.

[erikthewise]

They can sell BLT for $700 million bucks. I think they would tear down their mothers house if it let them build a $700 milliion DVC buildling. Disney doesn't seem to even like being in the restaurant business (note the lack of new CS restaurants, or a new show that doesn't date to the 70's).

The only think keeping them from building a DVC at the Poly and GF is fears of killing the cash cows and all the money those two resorts bring in.

And soon having 4-5 DVC resorts selling at the same time. Though I think the Hawaii one will be cancelled or at least postponed.

[JimP]

Spirit of Aloha sells out every night, and usually well in advance. Unlike most other dining options on property now, most people going to the luau are not on the DDP. It has a huge capacity, and minimally costs $53 (up to $62). There are two nightly shows.

Given the profitability, I can't see it being replaced. If anything, I think it would be relocated.

I think the Poly property could easily be expanded... even it it meant reloacating the parking lot furhter south... and moving the road that goes past the Poly. Then... the Luau could be moved to a new pavillion in that area... as well as new DVC units.

/Jim

[NYDVC]

I think the Poly property could easily be expanded... even it it meant reloacating the parking lot furhter south... and moving the road that goes past the Poly. Then... the Luau could be moved to a new pavillion in that area... as well as new DVC units.

/Jim

SOUNDS PERFECT....Now that thats all settled....lets get building!!!! :sunny:

How many would be buying the sandwich if the poly was being raised?

[dsruton]

No interest for me at BLT. But, Poly is a different story :bouncingp:bouncingp

[momeja]

No interest for me at BLT. But, Poly is a different story :bouncingp:bouncingp
I'm with you there. It's my favorite resort at WDW. :loveisint
My guess is that they'll just convert and expand the Tahiti. It's got the right location and a lot of space to work with - especially since the TTT doesn't really do the job it used to.

[Daitcher]

And soon having 4-5 DVC resorts selling at the same time. Though I think the Hawaii one will be cancelled or at least postponed.



I completely agree. They'd be insane to build that resort. They onwed land there before and ended up selling it to a real Timeshare company that knows how to sell outsde the magic gates of WDW, Marriott.




DAVE

[lenshanem]

Ya, they sure aren't sharing alot of info about Hawaii are they...

[spiceycat]

SOUNDS PERFECT....Now that thats all settled....lets get building!!!! :sunny:

How many would be buying the sandwich if the poly was being raised?

had to wait so long for a monrail resort - any monrail resort - can't see the Polyn going up before I am too old to enjoy it....

so yes despite my heart belong to the Polyn - next year when I can, will buy at the BLT.

[TikiTwinsDad]

Seems like most folks would drool over the Poly. I am! Assuming there's space, of course (which I think there is).

I've put up a poll to gauge interest here:
http://www.mouseowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17954

[BWV Dreamin]

I have only visited the Poly to eat at O'hanas. I felt very clostrophobic there, I can't say why. The resort seems very closed in to me. Seemed like a lot of people on top of each other. Maybe it was just that night. I wasn't impressed with it.

[salmoneous]

I have only visited the Poly to eat at O'hanas. There's an Irish restaurant in the Poly????

Sorry - couldn't resist. I'll go back to obsessing over Cinderella's Castle now.

[pycees312]

I disagree and think Hawaii will be built. In the time share industry the major hot spots are mexico, hawaii, bahammas and vegas areas. It looks like DVC is just making it's move to these areas to make it better for trades. Once we have Hawaii trading power our dvc will really be the crown jewel. In the years to come i suspect Mexico to follow. I would not be surprised if we end up with another Cast away cay or some version of it in the future.

[spiceycat]

I think the Poly property could easily be expanded... even it it meant reloacating the parking lot furhter south... and moving the road that goes past the Poly. Then... the Luau could be moved to a new pavillion in that area... as well as new DVC units.

/Jim

okay you are asking for one of WDW major roads (remember this is the one where all the non-Disney buses have to go on - there are more of them than Disney buses) to be closed and moved for a timeshare.

sorry can't see if happen.

so where is this extra room.

before the wedding pavillion - there was definitely room for a DVC resort - but now?

don't think the Polyn will give up the Luva - they haven't yet - they just kept changing it every few years.

there is about equal amount of room on either side - okay the side I like there is alittle less - but not a whole lot.

both of these sites have less room than the VWL - which is the smallest add on to a WDW resort that DVC has done. the popularity of the Polyn says that the DVC part will have to at least big as BCV if not BLT. there is not the space there - unless some of the lodges go down. (my opinion)

now I am stopping at the luva - maybe you are talking about the area between the wedding pavillion and Polyn?

there is definitely more room on the GF side.

would go with the valet parking area - but hey want a lagoon view for the DVC resort. even here there is not enough room.

[dsruton]

OK, After looking at Google Eath, I do not see whee they would put any villas at the POLY. Just not much room left. I also do not blieve that they could move accross the street because of the Golf Course. Any ideas ??:fingerscr

[salmoneous]

If you are willing to build a high rise poly-DVC, there's plenty of room. Sacrifice Tangaroa Terrace and Rapa Nui building/parking lot and you easily fit in a BLT-sized building. Now, I'm not sure what they would use for a construction staging area, and a high-rise poly is just dumb. But if they can build it for $200 million and sell it for $700 million, half a billion bucks is a lot of motivation to overcome these problems.

[NYDVC]

If you are willing to build a high rise poly-DVC, there's plenty of room. Sacrifice Tangaroa Terrace and Rapa Nui building/parking lot and you easily fit in a BLT-sized building. Now, I'm not sure what they would use for a construction staging area, and a high-rise poly is just dumb. But if they can build it for $200 million and sell it for $700 million, half a billion bucks is a lot of motivation to overcome these problems.

and for half a billion bucks they could move the wedding pavilion or construct long houses over the water. Where there's a will (money) theres a way. :lmbo:

[momeja]

There's an Irish restaurant in the Poly????

Sorry - couldn't resist. I'll go back to obsessing over Cinderella's Castle now.
You're bad. In the words of some old Disney movie (you know, the one with flying nannies and dancing penguins), "we're going to have to watch this one. (S)he's tricky."

[JimP]

okay you are asking for one of WDW major roads (remember this is the one where all the non-Disney buses have to go on - there are more of them than Disney buses) to be closed and moved for a timeshare.

sorry can't see if happen.

You have the order wrong. They build the new road first..then they close the existing one. No interruption in service. They are building new roads all the time. This would not be a big deal. Instant infinate space for the Poly.

/Jim

[SevenSeasGirl]

I think they certainly can go a little higher than the 3 floors on the existing longhouses. As long as they stay below the Great Ceremonial House roofline, I don't think it would look out of line with the rest of the resort.

[CatStarr]

First and foremost, Disney wants, likes and needs to make money. I understand people being upset about the $95 fee - I also won't use my points that way. It could be worse. Marriott charges and exchange fee to trade into other Marriotts-at least DVC doesn't charge for that.


When I bought, one of the things that was explained was that there was NO CHARGE to stay at any of the DVC resorts and that there was one to stay somewhere else. I think that if they changed that now, after the fact it would be a breach of contract. I never stay at the resort I purchased.

[CDog]

You have the order wrong. They build the new road first..then they close the existing one. No interruption in service. They are building new roads all the time. This would not be a big deal. Instant infinate space for the Poly.

/Jim

So when they build this new road.........everyone here will know the "secret"! Do you think they will be able to keep that DVC as much of a mystery as BLT?

[erikthewise]

If they were to move the road far enough to make a difference, they would be taking out part of the MK parking area. Check it out on Google Earth. It could happen but I don't think it will.

The Tahiti building has a large fraction of the Lagoon View rooms (40%?), which are at a premium in more than one way. I don't think they would take them away from the resort.

I really doubt they build a high-rise at the Polynesian -- if they do I won't buy. There's a good thematic reason why the longhouses are all 2-3 stories. A high-rise at the Polynesian would be like building a ski lodge at the Beach Club.

In short, the Luau Cove must die if we want Polynesian Villas.

[JimP]

If they were to move the road far enough to make a difference, they would be taking out part of the MK parking area. Check it out on Google Earth. It could happen but I don't think it will.

The Tahiti building has a large fraction of the Lagoon View rooms (40%?), which are at a premium in more than one way. I don't think they would take them away from the resort.

I really doubt they build a high-rise at the Polynesian -- if they do I won't buy. There's a good thematic reason why the longhouses are all 2-3 stories. A high-rise at the Polynesian would be like building a ski lodge at the Beach Club.

In short, the Luau Cove must die if we want Polynesian Villas.

I agree that Luau Cove would be the most likely direction that they build. I was just pointing out that if they want to make it larger... relocating the road would be an easy way to claim more land. Since the MK parking lot is the size of Vermont (an old unofficial guide reference)... then they have space to expand if desired.

/Jim

[disneymamaof2]

I really hope this rumor is true, I have been saying I hope they make DVC at Poly.

[Tapestry]

Although it would be cool... I think this DVC at the Poly is wishful thinking. Sometimes I wonder if DVC starts these rumors to determine how much interest there is in the project. They've got SSR, AKV, BLT and shortly Hawai'i and California. Sure, if Disney wants to do something (like build a Poly DVC) they'll find a way and some land. Heck, they've got a parking lot that can be built upon and cars go under as in AKV.

One of the major problems with constructing a Poly DVC though is theming. They can't build a tower, as they did at the Contemporary...it wouldn't fit in. They'd have to build out. The lagoon isn't big enough to support much more theming if a resort were to double in size. While they've got a nice parking lot, it would completely dwarf and upset the current Poly. The BLT was an obvious add-on to a property that was set up to handle it. The Poly is not.

Now...thinking simply about reality....Disney has developed 1/3 of their property. They've set aside another 1/3 for nature. They've still got huge parcels of land on which they can build...most sites FAR easier to work with than the Poly. I wouldn't be surprised if they created a pacific island theme DVC, but an extension of the Poly...not likely.

Anyway...I hope you all are right! But I'm not holding my breath. :coffee2:

[SwampFox]

I really doubt they build a high-rise at the Polynesian -- if they do I won't buy. There's a good thematic reason why the longhouses are all 2-3 stories. A high-rise at the Polynesian would be like building a ski lodge at the Beach Club.


Here is a pic from Tikiman's site of the early concept art for what we know now as the Poly. The image is of a 12 story structure. I like the design that was chosen and can't see how they would add a DVC resort there other than a conversion.

http://tikiman2001.homestead.com/polynesianconcept.jpg

[JimP]

Hot off the presses: Poly DVC will be patterned after Honolulu.

Take a look at the picture below. You can see the existing Polynesian Resort in the center bottom of the pic... these are units with green roofs. Toward the right you can see the marina, and to the left you can see the TTC. The new DVC units will all the other units build behind the existing resort.

/Jim

http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm191/flynz4/Honolulu01.jpg

[rlcarmichael]

We didn't see how they were going to put the then rumored BLT but darn if they didn't.

I think they will do something not really tower but more of a transition between Poly and GF. They will have to be careful to keep the Poly feel though.

[momeja]

LOL, Jim.

I'm still going in the opposite direction as to where they'd build. I think they'd build in the direction of the TTT. No conflicts with the monorail or with the wedding pavilion in that direction. Lots of sand and land in the direction of the Tahiti.

[Tapestry]

BLT was easy to place and envision. There was space. The theme is modern. The outbuildings were pretty cruddy. BLT was an obvious addition if they intended to build towards the MK.

Trust me...a Poly would be great....I'd LOVE it. I just think it's wishful thinking.

[erikthewise]

BLT was easy to place and envision. There was space. The theme is modern. The outbuildings were pretty cruddy. BLT was an obvious addition if they intended to build towards the MK.

Trust me...a Poly would be great....I'd LOVE it. I just think it's wishful thinking.

True, but it's REALLY GREAT wishful thinking! :genie:

Seriously, people probably would have said there was no room at Beach Club for BCV. There's at least as much room on the west side of the Polynesian as there was at Beach Club. We don't need (or want) a huge resort.

On the east side, there is not as much room between Tahiti and the TTC as you might think (check out Google Earth). And unlike the Luau Cove, the monorail can't be moved.

But most of all, DVC KNOWS that Polynesian Villas would sell well. In the long run they will not be able to leave that money sitting on the table.

[Tapestry]

I'm trying to be pessimistic here! That way, when it actually comes to pass I can be even MORE surprised and excited. Lowering expectations means that when we meet even some of them we're happy! :zipit:

I know.. I'm crazy. But it seems that every time I think something is happening, it never does...but if I assume it will never happen...it pops up even sooner. So I'm trying to reverse my bad luck, for the good of the Disney community! I'm just that selfless. (lol) Go Poly Go!

[spiceycat]

really do thing they will build a Polyn DVC resort - but not in the near future.

they need to sell what they have and are building first.

that was what happen the first time - BWV, VB and HH - all came up close together - know that Disney was disappointed in the sales at VB and HH.
one of the reason those resorts were cut back.

they need to make what they have work first.

too many managers do not work - SSR and OKW share - they both have 12 mangers..... see where Dvc could improve - one manager will make the decision that groups can't.

[Indykds]

Did there used to be no reservation Fees for DVC members to stay at the Polynesian?:Pumpkin:
Just got back from the Poly last week & thinking about joing DVC

[Tapestry]

Did there used to be no reservation Fees for DVC members to stay at the Polynesian?:Pumpkin:
Just got back from the Poly last week & thinking about joing DVC

I can't say for sure, but since I've been with DVC there have always been fees for going out of DVC (whether WDW or not).

[SwampFox]

Did there used to be no reservation Fees for DVC members to stay at the Polynesian?:Pumpkin:
Just got back from the Poly last week & thinking about joing DVC

No, there were no fees for the Disney Collection options (except DCL) until just last year. There was no $95 fee, only the points needed for the reservation (just like at the DL resorts).

[MickeysChicagoPals]

:thumbswayThere's a reservation fee to book at a WDW resort even though we're DVC? So, I can stay a week in Aruba or 4 days in a WDW regular resort room for the same $95 reservation fee?

[jaysue]

:thumbswayThere's a reservation fee to book at a WDW resort even though we're DVC? So, I can stay a week in Aruba or 4 days in a WDW regular resort room for the same $95 reservation fee?

That is the net effect of the changes done about 1 1/2 years ago

Cheers
jaysue