bryanb
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Sep 10, 2013
never stayed at swan and dolphin.. never even thought about it.. seems pricey.
I love the Swan and Dolphin for their location (and because I'm a Starwood member), and always check pricing on those two at SPG.com when planning a trip. If they're booked up, then sometimes it can be pricey just like the Disney-operated hotels. But I've often found really great deals. You're getting deluxe-style amenities and deluxe-style location without the Disney Deluxe markup. I've stayed for under $200/night several times, which is really a Disney moderate price.
The theming of the hotel is a matter of personal taste, but their staff are as friendly as Disney cast members. And the view outside your window is pure Walt Disney World, whether it be of Epcot, the Studios, the boats plying down the waters, or the Boardwalk. That location is truly amazing.
The Grand Californian is the very best Disney has to offer. It is gorgeous and whimsical and perfect. There are a lot of other Disney resorts that are awesome as well, but this one hits it out of the park.
Love the Grand Californian. I've been only able to stay there once during a conference. Unfortunately, it's probably one of the most expensive Disney resorts I've ever visited... so that does come at a cost.