RESORT QUESTIONS

I heard (not confirmed) that if you are staying at a Disney Resort you can use the pools at other resorts, is this true?

We are planning a trip to Walt Disney world and were wondering which hotel would be best? The Polynesian, Contemporary, Coronado, or Caribbean beach. We have a 5,6,11 yr old children. This is our first trip there and want it to be nice including the hotel. Thank you !

My husband and I are planning on taking our children and grandchildren to Disney World next year. We will be booking 3 adjoining rooms in the Grand Floridian Resort. Part of me wants to go ahead and book NOW but I know "deals" will be coming in the future. However, I'm afraid to wait.  What is the best advice?? Book now or wait?

Is it worth the extra $70 per night for a Savannah View at the Animal Kingdom Lodge if the animals can be seen from a lobby window or another viewing area?

Are any or all of the Disney pools heated for the cooler months?

Where are some great inexpensive places to stay?
 

I heard (not confirmed) that if you are staying in the park you can use the pools at other resorts, is this true?  I also was wondering if there is a map of each theme park highlighting the water fountains?
Unless you are a Disney Vacation Club Member, you cannot use pools at other resorts.  Even DVC members cannot use the pool at the Yacht and Beach Club and Animal Kingdom Lodge. 
 

We are planning a trip to Walt Disney world and were wondering which hotel would be best? The Polynesian, Contemporary, Coronado, or Caribbean beach. We have a 5,6,11 yr old children. This is our first trip there and want it to be nice including the hotel. Thank you !
Your decision depends on how much money you are willing to spend on a hotel room.  Coronado Springs and Caribbean Beach Resorts are moderately priced.  I have stayed at the Coronado Springs and had a very enjoyable visit.  If you are willing to spend more money, I would recommend the Polynesian over the Contemporary.  While both are monorail resorts, I feel the theme of the Polynesian would be more enjoyable for children (not to mention the pool area).  Additionally, the monorail travels through the center of the Contemporary which makes it much louder than the Polynesian. 

My husband and I are planning on taking our children and grandchildren to Disney World next year. We will be booking 3 adjoining rooms in the Grand Floridian Resort. Part of me wants to go ahead and book NOW but I know "deals" will be coming in the future. However, I'm afraid to wait. What is the best advice?? Book now or wait?
I would go ahead and book your room, but I would be aware of cancellation policies.  That way if a better rate is available you can cancel your first reservation and rebook.  If you are going to be at the parks for a while, you could look into getting an annual pass because they often offer discounted hotel rates to annual passholders. 

Is it worth the extra $70 per night for a Savannah View at the Animal Kingdom Lodge if the animals can be seen from a lobby window or another viewing area?
At the Animal Kingdom Lodge, there is a large viewing area open to guests and visitors.  While visiting this year, in the afternoon, there were a variety of animals to be seen.  I would save the $70 for other Disney experiences.  Book a standard room and when checking in it can't hurt to ask for a free upgrade to a Savannah room.  Occasionally, depending on occupancy, some lucky guests have been granted their request.

Are any or all of the Disney pools heated for the cooler months?
All of the pools on Disney property are heated year-round.

Where are some great inexpensive places to stay?
On property, you can try the All-Star Resorts.  They are the cheapest on property places to stay.  Off property, you can get a much better deal.  For the same price as Disney Rooms, your room will be much bigger. 

TIPS AND SNEAKY TRICKS