Family weekend at the Contemporary
About This Page: This is a discussion on Family weekend at the Contemporary within the Sharing the Adventure: Disney World Trip Reports, part of the PassPorter Community - Message Boards and Forums; [img]graemlins/puter.gif[/img] Ok, as promised, I'm baaaaack! [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img] This time instead ...

CruizCuz · 09-09-2002, 08:51 AM

[img]graemlins/puter.gif[/img] Ok, as promised, I'm baaaaack! [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img] This time instead of going with just my sister, we headed down to the "World" with my sister and her kids, 2 of my children, and my parents. So, here goes:

WHERE: Contemporary Resort

WHEN: September 6 - 8, 2002

I woke up Friday morning, September 6, with anticipation. I had just been to WL a couple of weeks ago, but regardless of how many trips I make to Disney, it's still SO very exciting. This time, I was taking two of my children, ages 6 1/2 and 15. My daughter, who is 15, was adopted by my husband and me, about 2 years ago. Since then, she has been to Disney about 5 times and loves it! In the orphanage, she only dreamed of coming to America and having a family...getting to travel to the World with her own actual family is so very special to her. Anyway, I digress. I packed the car and headed off to the children's schools. They were only having to go for 1/2 a day. I have a DVD player in the car, and had picked up the new Disney movie, "House of Mouse"...you know, the new one with all of the villains? Well, my son was thrilled! The weather this weekend called for the remnants of the tropical storm to be hanging on, and rainy. Not to be daunted, we packed our umbrellas and ponchos, and off we went. It's about a 3 hour drive, with no traffic or bad weather.

I was going to meet my parents in Orlando, at the Contemporary. This was our first experience with SOG, although my Dad is retired from the Air Force. We had never used this particular "perk" before. We knew from the beginning....no upgrades, North Garden Wing, 2nd or 3rd floor. I had instructed my Dad about the importance of trying for adjoining rooms, because of the children.

After hitting some patches of rain, but fortunately no traffic, we arrived at the Contemporary in about 2 hours and 45 min. My parents were at the check in counter, so I joined them. Now, I'm considered the "Disney afficienado" of the family, having done every single ressie ever made, including this one. My Dad was smiling a BIG smile when I approached saying that the first floor is generally closed off to SOG, but that they were going to allow us 2 rooms on the first floor. They were just outside of the playground, and it would be great for the kids. However, the rooms would be a couple of doors apart, according to the CM...would that be ok? I asked him specifically how many rooms apart...his reply was "only a couple", but that the room wasn't ready yet, so he couldn't give me the exact room number. My parents' room was ready, so we decided to go to their room, and take our luggage there. My sister wouldn't be down with my nephew until late, since he played football for the local HS, and he had a game south of Tampa. My parents brought my niece.

We parked in the North Garden Wing parking lot, and headed to the room. After staying at WL, CBR and POR recently, I was pleasantly surprised and reminded at the HUGE size of the rooms at the Contemporary. I had stayed there about 3 other times, but I always forget just how big the rooms are. We parked our luggage and headed off to the Food and Fun Center snack bar. My children hadn't eaten lunch yet, and it was about 2:00 p.m. Of course, with the resort arcade right next door to the food court, my son practically drooled the entire lunch. AFter stuffing his food in, he headed off to play some games. This is truly the BEST arcade in all of the resorts. You get tickets after playing many of the games, which are redeemable for small prizes later. This is a very cool thing for 6 y/o's. Afterwards we decided to just head up and ride the monorail over to the MK. I would try AGAIN to be the family that gets to ride in the front of the monorail. Believe it or not, I have been going to Disney for 25 years, and NEVER gotten that opportunity. Every single time, someone is already there or has requested it. Well, this time, WE GOT TO DO IT [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] ! It only holds 4 people, so the adults took turns, hopping on and off, but allowing the kids to stay there. My son was telling everyone that today (Sept 6) was my birthday, and for the first time, it was my actual birthday. We usually come around someone's birthday, but seldom can work it out that it's on the exact day. So, this was a very good birthday surprise from the folks on the monorail. Well, we get to the MK, and my niece reveals that she doesn't have her AP...ok, why couldn't she have mentioned that a LITTLE earlier? My sister had it, and she was in Tampa!
[img]images/icons/frown.gif[/img] So, we stayed on the monorail and rode back to the CR. My son thought riding the monorail was the best part of Disney, so he was thrilled, but my daughter really wanted to ride Space Mountain again! Oh well, we'll head over there tomorrow. After getting off of the monorail, we shopped on the fourth floor for some souvenirs and then headed back to the room. It was after 3:00, so I was sure that the second room would be ready. I called the main desk, and the room wasn't ready. On a hunch, I asked just how far "a couple" of rooms meant? The CM told me there were 2 possibilities, and they were each 8 rooms away from the room we were already in. I was upset! Now I know that there are no guarantees, but we already had adjoining rooms at check-in. I realize the CM was trying to do us a favor by allowing us to be on the ground floor for the kids, but being 8 rooms apart was a little too far. Deciding that you get more using "Pixie Dust", instead of "Pixie Dirt", I very sweetly asked if there was any way we could be put back into adjoining rooms. The CM said all of the SOG rooms were now full, and that was the best she could do. I very nicely explained our situation and how that it would be very hard to be so far apart from the grandparents. After putting me on hold, the CM came back and said that they had decided to move us, if we were in favor of the move, to the South Garden Wing, ground floor, adjoining rooms, facing the pool.....oh, my gosh, AGAIN, Disney is going out of their way to make our trip magical [img]graemlins/love.gif[/img] Both of the rooms were ready, so they called the bell staff and within maybe 10 minutes, we were moved over to the South wing, into our new rooms. We had our own little patio area, surrounded by hedges for privacy, with a few of the lake and pool! The kids were so thrilled. In less than 1 minute, all the kid were in their bathing suits, and off to the pool we go. This wonderful turn of events with the rooms made my Mom happy and took her mind off of the fact that my sister hadn't left the AP for my niece.

The pool at the Contemporary is one of my favorites. The two hot tubs are so close to everything. There are fountains, a large slide and the view is incredible. After getting my self some "adult" refreshments, I settled into my chair and enjoyed the weather and the atmosphere. There is truly NO place like Disney and Disney property. My son was having an absolute blast, and my daughter was laughing and playing like a 6 y/o herself.

I have to sign off now, but the good stuff starts happening with my next posting. Next, a review of the EWP, the Magic Kingdom, and Chef Mickey's! ENJOY!

Suflay · 09-09-2002, 12:25 PM

Okay, I only have a half-hour during lunch that I can read all the TR's, so WHERE IS YOUR NEXT INSTALLMENT? Do I have to wait until TOMORROW?? [img]images/icons/frown.gif[/img]

PS - I LUV WDW · 09-09-2002, 12:30 PM

What a great CM! Sounds like the second set of rooms was perfect. Can't wait to hear more!

CruizCuz · 09-10-2002, 12:07 PM

[img]images/icons/frown.gif[/img] I can't believe that the posting I wrote yesterday never made it to this forum...I'm not very computer literate, so I'm sure that the mistake was mine, but so, so sorry to everyone. Anyway, I'll try and re-write my thoughts and add some new ones......

EVENING AT THE CONTEMPORARY:
After playing by the pool for a while, we decided to hop back onto the monorail and go to the Poly for dinner. We didn't have PS anywhere, so we were going to "wing it". We decided to try the Kona Cafe. We were so surprised at the lack of crowds. We were seated immediately, and decided to just order appetizers and desserts. My son immediately went for the Mickey Ice Cream Cone "thingie"...not sure what the official name is, but everything on the plate is edible and beautiful. It definitely kept him quiet and amused. After the appetizers, we ordered the banana Creme Brulee'. It was a little disappointing in taste. I love creme brulee', but this wasn't the best I've tasted. Now, I know that the name means "burnt creme", but I've never had one that actually tasted burned. The bananas on top were good, but it had a very burnt taste. BUT, the atmosphere and the company more than made up for the dessert. We decided to go to the Wyland Gallery downstairs and "dream" and look at the sculptures and paintings. Wyland is one of my favorite artists of wildlife. He is also designing jewelry now, and most of the sterling silver designs aren't that expensive. If you love dolphins, tropical looks or manatees, and like to wear silver, you should check this out. After perusing the several wonderful shops at the Poly, we hopped back onto the monorail, and headed back to the Contemporary.

We all changed back into our suits and relaxed by the pool, waiting for the Electrical Water Parade. We were not disappointed. The weather was perfect and the skies were clear. There was such a nice breeze blowing. I know that many have stated that the EWP isn't that much to look at, but it evokes such wonderful memories of the past with beauty, music and peacefulness. I remember watching the EWP atleast 12 years ago. It hasn't changed much, but I still love it. Hey, and it's FREE! There's something about sitting on the beach sand, sipping a nice cool drink, listening to the music and watching the lights....definitely a Disney moment. [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img] The EWP happens at the CR around 10:05 p.m. We started getting worried when the parade was over, and we hadn't heard from my sister. The football game that my nephew was playing in, should be over. Well, after returning back to the room, she called. It would be about a 2 hour drive from Bradenton (near Tampa) to Orlando. Everyone decided to go to bed after establishing a wake up call for 7:05 a.m., because tomorrow would be an early day. I like to get to the parks about 30 minutes early, because if you are some of the first ones there, you get to ride the most rides without the lines...AND beat the heat! At midnight, we recieved a call from my sister that she was broken down on the dark highway, with my 15y/o nephew. My Dad immediately set out to look for her, after telling her to call the police. Good thing, because the police took an hour to get there, and my Dad arrived shortly after that. They arranged for the van to be towed back to Bradenton, and came back to the hotel...getting back at about 3:00 a.m. We were just so happy and thankful that everyone was safe and sound. More later on today about our day at the Magic Kingdom. ENJOY!

Bert & Sully · 09-10-2002, 02:44 PM

Did you get the special "license" for riding up front? We got to do it for Keith's birthday in May [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] . Hope your sister's ok.

Thanks for another great TR!

[img]graemlins/love.gif[/img] ing it!

Elaine

luvnwdwgal · 09-11-2002, 04:20 PM

Really enjoying your trip report!
We were originally booked at the CR, but just recently due to overbooking, we were moved to the Poly Concierge! Sorry to hear about your sister's car trouble. Hope the rest of your time together in WDW is wonderful!!

tikibird · 09-12-2002, 06:15 PM

Love hearing about the Contemporary - the family wants to stay there next trip, but I'm hesitant. Did you like it as well as WL?

Great report so far - looking forward to the next installment! [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

**Shell_of_the_South** · 09-14-2002, 06:55 AM

Waiting for another installment of your trip!

Bert & Sully · 10-14-2002, 10:59 AM

Still awaitin' with the others!

09-09-2002, 08:51 AM	#1 (permalink)
CruizCuz Community Rank: Traveler Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Florida Posts: 239	Family weekend at the Contemporary [img]graemlins/puter.gif[/img] Ok, as promised, I'm baaaaack! [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img] This time instead of going with just my sister, we headed down to the "World" with my sister and her kids, 2 of my children, and my parents. So, here goes: WHERE: Contemporary Resort WHEN: September 6 - 8, 2002 I woke up Friday morning, September 6, with anticipation. I had just been to WL a couple of weeks ago, but regardless of how many trips I make to Disney, it's still SO very exciting. This time, I was taking two of my children, ages 6 1/2 and 15. My daughter, who is 15, was adopted by my husband and me, about 2 years ago. Since then, she has been to Disney about 5 times and loves it! In the orphanage, she only dreamed of coming to America and having a family...getting to travel to the World with her own actual family is so very special to her. Anyway, I digress. I packed the car and headed off to the children's schools. They were only having to go for 1/2 a day. I have a DVD player in the car, and had picked up the new Disney movie, "House of Mouse"...you know, the new one with all of the villains? Well, my son was thrilled! The weather this weekend called for the remnants of the tropical storm to be hanging on, and rainy. Not to be daunted, we packed our umbrellas and ponchos, and off we went. It's about a 3 hour drive, with no traffic or bad weather. I was going to meet my parents in Orlando, at the Contemporary. This was our first experience with SOG, although my Dad is retired from the Air Force. We had never used this particular "perk" before. We knew from the beginning....no upgrades, North Garden Wing, 2nd or 3rd floor. I had instructed my Dad about the importance of trying for adjoining rooms, because of the children. After hitting some patches of rain, but fortunately no traffic, we arrived at the Contemporary in about 2 hours and 45 min. My parents were at the check in counter, so I joined them. Now, I'm considered the "Disney afficienado" of the family, having done every single ressie ever made, including this one. My Dad was smiling a BIG smile when I approached saying that the first floor is generally closed off to SOG, but that they were going to allow us 2 rooms on the first floor. They were just outside of the playground, and it would be great for the kids. However, the rooms would be a couple of doors apart, according to the CM...would that be ok? I asked him specifically how many rooms apart...his reply was "only a couple", but that the room wasn't ready yet, so he couldn't give me the exact room number. My parents' room was ready, so we decided to go to their room, and take our luggage there. My sister wouldn't be down with my nephew until late, since he played football for the local HS, and he had a game south of Tampa. My parents brought my niece. We parked in the North Garden Wing parking lot, and headed to the room. After staying at WL, CBR and POR recently, I was pleasantly surprised and reminded at the HUGE size of the rooms at the Contemporary. I had stayed there about 3 other times, but I always forget just how big the rooms are. We parked our luggage and headed off to the Food and Fun Center snack bar. My children hadn't eaten lunch yet, and it was about 2:00 p.m. Of course, with the resort arcade right next door to the food court, my son practically drooled the entire lunch. AFter stuffing his food in, he headed off to play some games. This is truly the BEST arcade in all of the resorts. You get tickets after playing many of the games, which are redeemable for small prizes later. This is a very cool thing for 6 y/o's. Afterwards we decided to just head up and ride the monorail over to the MK. I would try AGAIN to be the family that gets to ride in the front of the monorail. Believe it or not, I have been going to Disney for 25 years, and NEVER gotten that opportunity. Every single time, someone is already there or has requested it. Well, this time, WE GOT TO DO IT [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] ! It only holds 4 people, so the adults took turns, hopping on and off, but allowing the kids to stay there. My son was telling everyone that today (Sept 6) was my birthday, and for the first time, it was my actual birthday. We usually come around someone's birthday, but seldom can work it out that it's on the exact day. So, this was a very good birthday surprise from the folks on the monorail. Well, we get to the MK, and my niece reveals that she doesn't have her AP...ok, why couldn't she have mentioned that a LITTLE earlier? My sister had it, and she was in Tampa! [img]images/icons/frown.gif[/img] So, we stayed on the monorail and rode back to the CR. My son thought riding the monorail was the best part of Disney, so he was thrilled, but my daughter really wanted to ride Space Mountain again! Oh well, we'll head over there tomorrow. After getting off of the monorail, we shopped on the fourth floor for some souvenirs and then headed back to the room. It was after 3:00, so I was sure that the second room would be ready. I called the main desk, and the room wasn't ready. On a hunch, I asked just how far "a couple" of rooms meant? The CM told me there were 2 possibilities, and they were each 8 rooms away from the room we were already in. I was upset! Now I know that there are no guarantees, but we already had adjoining rooms at check-in. I realize the CM was trying to do us a favor by allowing us to be on the ground floor for the kids, but being 8 rooms apart was a little too far. Deciding that you get more using "Pixie Dust", instead of "Pixie Dirt", I very sweetly asked if there was any way we could be put back into adjoining rooms. The CM said all of the SOG rooms were now full, and that was the best she could do. I very nicely explained our situation and how that it would be very hard to be so far apart from the grandparents. After putting me on hold, the CM came back and said that they had decided to move us, if we were in favor of the move, to the South Garden Wing, ground floor, adjoining rooms, facing the pool.....oh, my gosh, AGAIN, Disney is going out of their way to make our trip magical [img]graemlins/love.gif[/img] Both of the rooms were ready, so they called the bell staff and within maybe 10 minutes, we were moved over to the South wing, into our new rooms. We had our own little patio area, surrounded by hedges for privacy, with a few of the lake and pool! The kids were so thrilled. In less than 1 minute, all the kid were in their bathing suits, and off to the pool we go. This wonderful turn of events with the rooms made my Mom happy and took her mind off of the fact that my sister hadn't left the AP for my niece. The pool at the Contemporary is one of my favorites. The two hot tubs are so close to everything. There are fountains, a large slide and the view is incredible. After getting my self some "adult" refreshments, I settled into my chair and enjoyed the weather and the atmosphere. There is truly NO place like Disney and Disney property. My son was having an absolute blast, and my daughter was laughing and playing like a 6 y/o herself. I have to sign off now, but the good stuff starts happening with my next posting. Next, a review of the EWP, the Magic Kingdom, and Chef Mickey's! ENJOY!

09-09-2002, 12:25 PM	#2 (permalink)
Suflay Community Rank: Wayfarer Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Pensacola, FL Posts: 143	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary Okay, I only have a half-hour during lunch that I can read all the TR's, so WHERE IS YOUR NEXT INSTALLMENT? Do I have to wait until TOMORROW?? [img]images/icons/frown.gif[/img]

09-09-2002, 12:30 PM	#3 (permalink)
PS - I LUV WDW Community Rank: Trekker Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Massachusetts Posts: 1,588	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary What a great CM! Sounds like the second set of rooms was perfect. Can't wait to hear more!

09-10-2002, 12:07 PM	#4 (permalink)
CruizCuz Community Rank: Traveler Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Florida Posts: 239	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary [img]images/icons/frown.gif[/img] I can't believe that the posting I wrote yesterday never made it to this forum...I'm not very computer literate, so I'm sure that the mistake was mine, but so, so sorry to everyone. Anyway, I'll try and re-write my thoughts and add some new ones...... EVENING AT THE CONTEMPORARY: After playing by the pool for a while, we decided to hop back onto the monorail and go to the Poly for dinner. We didn't have PS anywhere, so we were going to "wing it". We decided to try the Kona Cafe. We were so surprised at the lack of crowds. We were seated immediately, and decided to just order appetizers and desserts. My son immediately went for the Mickey Ice Cream Cone "thingie"...not sure what the official name is, but everything on the plate is edible and beautiful. It definitely kept him quiet and amused. After the appetizers, we ordered the banana Creme Brulee'. It was a little disappointing in taste. I love creme brulee', but this wasn't the best I've tasted. Now, I know that the name means "burnt creme", but I've never had one that actually tasted burned. The bananas on top were good, but it had a very burnt taste. BUT, the atmosphere and the company more than made up for the dessert. We decided to go to the Wyland Gallery downstairs and "dream" and look at the sculptures and paintings. Wyland is one of my favorite artists of wildlife. He is also designing jewelry now, and most of the sterling silver designs aren't that expensive. If you love dolphins, tropical looks or manatees, and like to wear silver, you should check this out. After perusing the several wonderful shops at the Poly, we hopped back onto the monorail, and headed back to the Contemporary. We all changed back into our suits and relaxed by the pool, waiting for the Electrical Water Parade. We were not disappointed. The weather was perfect and the skies were clear. There was such a nice breeze blowing. I know that many have stated that the EWP isn't that much to look at, but it evokes such wonderful memories of the past with beauty, music and peacefulness. I remember watching the EWP atleast 12 years ago. It hasn't changed much, but I still love it. Hey, and it's FREE! There's something about sitting on the beach sand, sipping a nice cool drink, listening to the music and watching the lights....definitely a Disney moment. [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img] The EWP happens at the CR around 10:05 p.m. We started getting worried when the parade was over, and we hadn't heard from my sister. The football game that my nephew was playing in, should be over. Well, after returning back to the room, she called. It would be about a 2 hour drive from Bradenton (near Tampa) to Orlando. Everyone decided to go to bed after establishing a wake up call for 7:05 a.m., because tomorrow would be an early day. I like to get to the parks about 30 minutes early, because if you are some of the first ones there, you get to ride the most rides without the lines...AND beat the heat! At midnight, we recieved a call from my sister that she was broken down on the dark highway, with my 15y/o nephew. My Dad immediately set out to look for her, after telling her to call the police. Good thing, because the police took an hour to get there, and my Dad arrived shortly after that. They arranged for the van to be towed back to Bradenton, and came back to the hotel...getting back at about 3:00 a.m. We were just so happy and thankful that everyone was safe and sound. More later on today about our day at the Magic Kingdom. ENJOY!

09-10-2002, 02:44 PM	#5 (permalink)
Bert & Sully Community Rank: Legend Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Florida Big Bend Posts: 16,646	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary Did you get the special "license" for riding up front? We got to do it for Keith's birthday in May [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img] . Hope your sister's ok. Thanks for another great TR! [img]graemlins/love.gif[/img] ing it! Elaine

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09-11-2002, 04:20 PM	#6 (permalink)
luvnwdwgal Community Rank: Legend Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: North Central Ohio Posts: 17,524	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary Really enjoying your trip report! We were originally booked at the CR, but just recently due to overbooking, we were moved to the Poly Concierge! Sorry to hear about your sister's car trouble. Hope the rest of your time together in WDW is wonderful!!

09-12-2002, 06:15 PM	#7 (permalink)
tikibird Community Rank: Navigator Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Pittsburgh, PA , USA Posts: 6,148	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary Love hearing about the Contemporary - the family wants to stay there next trip, but I'm hesitant. Did you like it as well as WL? Great report so far - looking forward to the next installment! [img]images/icons/grin.gif[/img]

10-14-2002, 10:59 AM	#9 (permalink)
Bert & Sully Community Rank: Legend Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Florida Big Bend Posts: 16,646	Re: Family weekend at the Contemporary Still awaitin' with the others!

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