The *New* Grand Floridian Resort and Spa FAQ thread (NOV 2008)

[Alicnwondrln]

Hi Everyone. We have hit the 249 page mark on the current thread and per DIS guidelines we need to start a new one (at 250) so here it is. I am going to move all of the info and place it at the beginning here and then the new FAQ thread will be all set. For those of you who love to "chat" about the GF and other things we have a chat thread. Here is the link: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1942689
All are welcome on the chat thread!

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Legendary elegance and lavish décor combine with impeccable service and spectacular views to create exceptional style that pampers Guests and responds to every whim. Live lobby entertainment by the Grand Floridian Orchestra, multi-paneled arch windows, turn-of-the-century gas lamps, regal chandeliers and a world-class spa define quintessential luxury at Disney's flagship Resort Hotel.

Check In/Check Out
3:00 PM (EST) / 11:00 AM (EST)

Address
4401 Floridian Way
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830

Payment Method(s)
Disney Gift Card, Visa, American Express, MasterCard, Discover, JCB.

Pictures from the Lobby:

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Dining

- 1 Quick Service location

Gasparilla Grille and Games

Menu from the DIS:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=30

- 6 Full Service restuarants
1900 Park Fare (Character dining)
Menu from the DIS:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=28

Citricos
Menu from the DIS: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=186

Grand Floridian Café
Menu from the DIS: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=31

Garden View Tea
Menu from the DIS: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=305

Narcoossee's
Menu from the DIS: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=32

Victoria & Albert's
Menu from the DIS: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=32

Chef's Table at V & A:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?restaurant.ID=184

- 2 children's dining activities

Princess Tea Party (lives4disney)

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There are some fun kids activites at the Grand Floridian. Here are some pictures of the Princess Tea Party. I think my older daughter (8 at the time) and I enjoyed it much more than my 4.5 yr old. DD4 got kind of bored sitting for so long. SHE's the one I thought would love this party! The music, songs & stories were very entertaining. I didn't take pictures of the food, which was good but didn't amount to much. We were served little tea sandwiches and red grapes, nice tea, and then a very pretty cake for dessert. The girls had about the same but with apple juice "tea". They started out the party by calling the girls' names and then crowning them with a pretty garland and escorting them in one by one to the tables. Rose Petal told stories and sang accompanied by Baron Von Branch. After the lunch Aurora came to visit. I unexpectedly enjoyed it. Somewhere in there the girls were given their Disney Aurora dolls. Then, at the end they were given little certificates to pick up their other gift items at the Mercantile store upstairs in the GF lobby.

Wonderland Tea Party

NEW PRICING FOR ALICE
Wonderland Tea Party - A tea party (lasting one hour) for children, hosted by characters from Alice in Wonderland. Children will make and eat cupcakes, enjoy a story, eat lunch, and have tea with the characters, and make flower bouquets. Lunch includes turkey and cheese or berry sandwich, chicken nuggets, fruit, dessert, and apple tea (apple juice). (Menu subject to change.) Children who are potty trained and ages 4-10 may attend.

Monday through Friday from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Available to all guests, Cost is $40.00 ($42.60 incliding tax).
Reservations 180 days in advance at 407-WDW-DINE.


My girls have also done the Alice in Wonderland Tea Party which they enjoyed several times. It's very secretive, so I don't think I have many pictures to share.....it's a kids only thing and adults drop off and pick up. Here are some pics when I dropped the girls off. This party takes place in 1900 Park Faire. The kids are served lunch and cupcakes, which they decorate, and play fun games. During this party Mary Poppins and Alice ran the party. Other times it was Alice and the Mad Hatter. THey loved this, but actually their favorite kids activity was the Adventures in Cooking!

The Pirate Cruise at the GF Marina: FROM LIVES4DISNEY

Pirate Adventure - Children wear pirate bandannas and follow clues to search Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon for buried treasure. They sail to many exotic "ports of call" (Resort Marinas) to collect treasure. Children who are potty trained (no pull-ups) and ages 4-12 may attend. Lunch is provided (Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich, Gummy bears, Krispy Treat and Juice box).

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Available to all guests. Cost is $31.95 (includes tax).
Reservations 180 days in advance at 407-WDW-DINE.

What a cutie

In-Room Dining: 24 hours Menu coming soon. I have an updated one but need to print it out and scan it in. I will try and do this later and then add it.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Recreation

- 2 Pools
Feature Pool: beach pool with
zero-depth entry, water slide
waterfalls, walking bridge, natural
springs setting & cabana rentals

Courtyard or Quiet Pool

The Main Pool:

- Child pool
- Whirlpool spa
- Children's playground
- Arcade
- Tennis
- Marina/boat rental
- Water cruises
- Fishing
- Beach area
- Volleyball
- Jogging trail
- Health club
- Full service spa
Here is the link to the spa:
www.relaxedyet.com
Spa Services



The opulent spa takes guest service to the highest level with a broad, balanced program of beautifying and well-being services such as facials, manicures, pedicures, massage therapy, body treatments, and nutrition and fitness counselling. For scheduling information, please call (407) 824-2332*.

Guests will find private treatment rooms, a couples' treatment room, and lounges. Both men's and women's locker rooms include sauna, whirlpool, and steam room. Full-day, half-day, and individual treatments are available.>


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Facial Therapy: Choose from a selection of soothing and refreshing vitamin- and mineral-rich cleansers and moisturizers, Vitamin C serums, and algae masks that help balance, purify, and replenish the skin. The selection includes a European facial, spa toning facial, and men's facial.


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Massage Therapy: Soothe sore muscles, boost circulation, and eliminate stress with a Swedish massage, reflexology, Shiatsu, sports massage, or head, shoulders, and back massage.


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Water Therapy and Soaks: Relieve tension with a series of water therapies and soothing soaks, including a sports bath, mustard bath, hydrobath, or native Floridian floral bath. Traditional hydrotherapy massage, mineral soaks, and marine algae baths are also offered.


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Body Therapy: Relax and rejuvenate with a marine algae mask, aromatherapy salt glow, mineral body glow, or hydrating paraffin body wrap.


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Spa to Go: Enjoy a series of treatments with instructions on how to adapt the therapies to your lifestyle.


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Hand and Body Treatments: Unwind with a spa manicure, pedicure, or soothing leg treatment.


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Health and Fitness Services: Undergo a fitness evaluation, flexibility and strength assessment, and body-composition analysis. Then use state-of-the-art Cybex® strength and cardiovascular equipment under the guidance of a personal trainer.


Info about the cabanas:

Here's some info directly from the GF concierge......... this is update as of 3/4/09 as far as pricing. The set up of the cabanas has changed with the TV how hanging in the corner a ceiling fan. There is also nice plush seating in the cabana as well.

Rental Cabana amenities include:
. Two padded chaise lounge chairs
. Two padded straight-backed chairs
. Plush towels
. 22 inch LCD television with cable access and optional earphones
. Sirius Satellite Radio
. DVD/CD/MP3 player
. Phone for internal resorts calls
. Oscillating Fan
. Mini refrigerator stocked with complementary sodas and water
. Complementary fruit basket
. Private dining and poolside massages are available at an
additional cost.

A half day is $60.00 and is from 10am - 2pm OR 3pm - 7pm
A full day is $110 for 10am - 7pm


Here are some theme pool pictures including the cabanas you can rent. Call 407 WDW -PLAY to reserve.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Transportation Other Services
- Motorcoach transportation
Epcot®
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney's Animal Kingdom®
Disney Water Parks
Downtown Disney®
Disney Resort Hotels*
*Requires one transfer at a Disney Theme Park
- Water launch to:
Magic Kingdom®
Disney's Polynesian Resort
- Monorail to:
Disney's Polynesian Resort
Disney's Contemporary Resort
Magic Kingdom®
Epcot®*
*Requires a Monorail change at the Transportation & Ticket Center - Disney Resort Benefits
- 6 merchandise shops (gifts, sundries)
- Self service laundry facilities
- Valet laundry service
- Club Level Concierge
- Business Center
- Convention/meeting space
- Salon/barber services
- Valet parking

 

[Alicnwondrln]

General Information

842 Guest Rooms, 25 Suites
Disabled accessible rooms available
All rooms non-smoking
Buildings offer elevators and stairs with interior corridors

Room Amenities

In Each Room Upon Request (subject to availability)
Alarm Clock w/ CD player
Balcony/Patio
Ceiling Fan
Coffee Maker & Setup
Dial-Up Internet*
DVD Player (suites)
Evening Turndown Service
Hair Dryer
In-Room Wall Safe
Iron and Board
Minibar
Mini-Refrigerator
Robes
Table & Chairs
Tea Setup
Telephone*
Television
- ABC, Disney Channel, ESPN & more
Triple Sheet Bedding
USA Today Delivery (Mon-Fri)
Vanity Area
Voice Mail Bed Boards/Rails
Crib: Full Size
High Speed Internet (fee)
High Speed Internet Wireless (fee)
Microwave

* Local, 1-800, collect, credit card and third party calls placed from an in-room Disney Resort Guest telephone do not incur a surcharge. Charges will apply for directory assistance and domestic/international long-distance calls.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Kids Programs




Need someone to watch the kids for a while? Boy, have you come to the right place. From in-room child care to Discovery programs -- even special clubs just for kids. Disney's got it all. Just take a look. Bet you never had a babysitter as fun as this.

Please note: Babysitters and childcare supervisors are primarily English speakers. To inquire about additional language capabilities, please call in advance.

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Mouseketeer Clubhouse
Hours: 4:30 pm to 12 midnight
Information: (407) 824-2985 or (407) 939-3463*
Offers supervised activities, entertainment, and refreshments for children ages four to 12. Charge is $11 USD per hour per child, with a four-hour maximum. Reservations required.


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Kid's Nite Out, Inc.
Kid's Nite Out caregivers can provide one-on-one in-room childcare in the comfort of a Walt Disney World® Resort room. The professional staff of Kid's Nite Out gives the child individual attention by playing a variety of fun-filled activities with him/her including reading books, coloring, or playing "I Spy" games. They can also provide a fun, well-trained sitter to just hang out with the family if they need a father's/mother's helper. Kid's Nite Out also plans and works children's parties, camps, and children's theme conventions.


Reservations:


Advance reservations are required - please call 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm
Services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at all Walt Disney World® Resorts
Guests can call up to 90 Days in advance. Will try to accommodate same-day calls or unusual hours.
Cancellations require 24 hours notice to avoid the 4 hour minimum charge.

Phone Number: 407-828-0920
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[Alicnwondrln]

Amenities

Club Level Concierge Amenities:

Available at *ALL* Disney Deluxe Resorts for Concierge Guests :
Nightly Turndown Service
High Speed Internet Access (access fees apply)
Bathroom Amenities (shampoo, conditioner, hand/body lotion, bath & facial soap)
Complimentary Fax Assistance
Complimentary Health Club Access
2 Adult-Size Spa Bathrobes (in-room use, additional robes can be requested)
Club Level Check-In from 7am - 10pm
Club Level Assistance from 7am - 10pm (tickets, dining, recreation, special events)
Advanced Itinerary Planning
Refreshments throughout the day in Concierge Lounges
Secured Key Access to Club Level Floors
USA Today Newspaper
Coffee Maker with Coffee & Tea Assortment
Iron and Board
Safe
Hair Dryer
Refrigerator - not stocked (available upon request at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)
Library of Disney Movies at Concierge Desk
VCR and/or DVD Players in suites (upon request at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)
CD/Clock Radios in Suites
Discovery Wildlife Excursion

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Club Concierge Itinerary Planner Office
(For Confirmed Club Level Reservations Only)


PH: 407-824-1775
FX: 407-824-3461
Grand.Floridian.Itinerary.Planning@disneyworld.com

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Royal Palm Club 7:00 am - 10:00 pm 4th Floor, Main Building

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Sugar Loaf Key Club 7:00 am - 10:00 pm Sugar Loaf Key Building

 

[Alicnwondrln]

LOUNGE OFFERINGS


TIME OF SERVICE
SAMPLE OFFERINGS*

Morning:
7:00am - 10:30am
pastries, fruit, cereal & beverages

Snacks:
11:30am - 4:00pm
chips, cookies & beverages

Afternoon Tea:
3:00pm - 4:30pm
(Royal Palm & Sugarloaf ONLY)
scones, cookies, tartlettes, fruit breads, trifle & beverages

Evening:
5:00pm - 7:00pm
hot item samples, children's corner, crudites, cheese tray, beverages, wine & beer (champagne at Royal Palm & Sugarloaf)

Cordials & Desserts:
8:00pm - 10:00pm
assorted desserts and cordials

All Day:
7:00am - 10:00pm
whole fresh fruit & beverages

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Tours

Discovery Wildlife Excursion
Offered to ALL Club Level Concierge Guests

Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park invites you to venture off the beaten path of the Harambe Wildlife Reserve for a unique animal observation and photo excursion. Led by a seasoned Safari Guide and an animal expert, this 1-hour vehicle adventure takes you off the Safari trail, stopping at special observation and photo areas throughout the Reserve.

The hour-long excursion costs $45 USD for each Guest - with a portion of the proceeds donated to the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund. Offered twice a day (Tuesday through Saturday) at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Advanced reservations and Theme Park Admission is required. All Guests must be at least 3-years of age to participate. Reservations can be made through the Itinerary Planning Office at their home resort. (Not included in Magic Your Way Packages)


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Sunrise Safari
This tour is exclusive to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Kilimanjaro Club Level Concierge Guests Only

A 45 - 60 minute in-depth safari experience at Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park (admission required) followed by a lavish African breakfast buffet at Tusker House Restaurant. This safari is offered on Sunday and Thursday to Concierge Guests staying at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. The tour begins at 7:00 am on these mornings and costs $55 USD for Guests 10 and older and $27.50 USD for Guests ages 3 to 9. Prices include tour, breakfast, tax and gratuity. (Not included in Magic Your Way Packages)



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Wanyama Safari
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Guests Only

A 90-minute safari experience at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge that resembles an African afternoon game drive. Guests will be able to learn about the natural history and management of the animals and architecture of the resort. The safari begins approximately one hour prior to sunset and concludes at Jiko for a multi-course meal. This safari is offered on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. The tour cost is $160 USD per person for guests 10 and older and $80 USD for guests 8 and 9 years of age (Club Level Pricing). Price includes tour, meal, tax and gratuity) Not available for guests under the age of 8. (Not included in Magic Your Way Packages)

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Once you make concierge reservation you should email the IPO and touch base with them and introduce yourself. Then around 2 weeks before dining can be made email them with what you want.

One of these benefits is personalized itinerary planning. The benefits of an on-site Itinerary Planner are substantial, providing your Clients with a “seamless vacation” and giving them the best opportunity to participate in all the activities and events that interest them during their stay. Personal Itinerary Planning assistance includes :

- Recreational Activities
- Entertainment
- Childcare
- Dining

- Special Arrangements
- Special Events
- Spa Services
- Golf

 

[Alicnwondrln]

HMM I wonder who this is??

The BEST GF CM EVER!!

This thread shows the difference bewteen a standard club level room and a deluxe club level room:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2022111

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Some of these pics are from tete:

Room 6220 a Tower Room in the Sugar Loaf building. There are only 3 of these and they are by request only.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Post 61 & 62
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2015783&page=5

A variety of pics from Lives4Disney of the GF anniversary and other shots from around the resort.


This was the view from room in August, room 4031 all the way at the end and it had a stunning MK view. Thanks to the amazing CM who helped me.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

Here are some pics from the GF grounds:

 

[Alicnwondrln]

 

[PhillipV]

Will the Floridian allow us to decorate our balcony or glass doors? We'll be there Dec 23-27

 

[Alicnwondrln]

I dont see alot of that at the GF. I have seen it at the POP though. There are some threads on the DIS right now that say of you decorate your window they MAY charge you if they have to clean it up. I dont know if that was proved a rumor or true.