Choosing Your Moderate Resort

Well, everyone, it's been a while since I posted a strictly planning blog post here.  That's probably because I'm not planning my vacation anymore, and I apologize for that.  Unless you prefer "Disney at Home" posts, because then I'm sorry for this!  Anyway...

You don't have an unlimited budget, but you do have a substantial amount of money you can spend.  You find that you fall right in the moderate resort category, but aren't sure which resort is going to be best for you.  Are you looking for something romantic, or do you want to be able to get Disney transportation and go?  I'll help you figure that out!



Spender vs. Saver
What can you get for the least amount of money in this category?  For the most?  Find out here!

Spender

Okay, just kidding.  If you want to spend some money, but you're more in the "moderate category," I would probably just bump up to Deluxe, specifically Wilderness Lodge (the "saver" of that category), or just a Deluxe resort in general.  For more information, click here.

Saver

The least expensive moderate "resort"are the Campsites at Fort Wilderness.  The outdoorsy atmosphere makes it not the best fit for all, but there are so many perks that come with staying here that are not nearly as accessible for those staying elsewhere.  Here's some examples:

• Average cost of campsite (depending on amenities): $54-$84 per night
• Keep in mind, a tent or RV are not included and must be brought by those staying there.  It might be worth it to look into renting an RV for the week.
• Some campsites at Fort Wilderness allow pets
• Two dinner shows, Hoop-de-Doo Musical Revue and Mickey's Backyard BBQ, as well as the delicious Trail's End Restaurant are located here
• Bus and boat transportation are available here
• There are a long list of outdoor activities that are available here, including:
• Chip 'N Dale's Campfire Sing-a-long
• Tri-Circle-D Ranch (with pony rides, wagon rides, holiday sleigh rides, and horseback riding trails)
• Pools
• Fort Wilderness Archery Experience
• Motorized Boat Rentals, Canoe Rentals, Kayak Rentals
• Fishing
• Bike Rentals
• 2 Different Arcades
• Volleyball and Basketball Courts
• Waterskiing
• Hiking and Jogging Trails
• and More!

Planner vs. Impulsive
The moderate category isn't the most generous to the impulsive, because many of these resorts have internal shuttles that slow down travel time.  This lends better to the planner, who can account for that time used traveling around the resort, but can also lead the planner to steer away from this category.  Here are what I believe to be the best picks for both!

Planner

For the Planner, I recommend the Caribbean Beach Resort.  Though the internal shuttle can be a bit of a pain, but the amenities on this beautiful pseudo-island make it worth it.

• Average cost per night: $194
• In the Epcot resort area, and located near Fantasia Gardens mini golf course
• Casual dining at Shutters at Old Port Royale table-service, as well as the Old Port Royale food court
• White sand beaches with hammocks to relax in, in addition to pools per "island"
• Bike rentals, fishing, and a jogging trail
• Bus transportation internally and outside the resort

Unless you want to be in the Pirates of the Caribbean rooms (which are the furthest from the Customs House where you check in and out), I suggest either requesting a preferred room to put you closer to the main areas, or asking to be placed in Barbados - closest to the Customs House, or Martinique or Trinidad North - closest to the food court and main pool area.

Impulsive

Port Orleans French Quarter is the best resort for the Impulsive Disney-goer because it is the only moderate resort without an internal shuttle.  Here are some other aspects that make this resort a great choice:

• Average per night: $194
• Buses available for transportation, as well as a boat to Downtown Disney
• Sassagoula Floatworks food court and two lounges for your evening (or afternoon) beverage
• Sassagoula Floatworks is also home to the much desired beignets, one of the only places in Walt Disney World that serves them regularly

Romantic vs. Fun

I think that this category has some of the best options of moderate resorts.  If your goal is to spend money in the moderate range, I would evaluate your choice baed on these two criteria and go from there!

Romantic

Coronado Springs is a great option for romance in the moderate category.  Though some people consider this a "conference hotel," this fact about it makes it have a more adult-friendly atmosphere, and amenities perfect for a couple. 

• Average per night: $194
• Maya Grill is available for table-service, with 3 other quick service options as well as 3 lounges in this resort
• The La Vida Health club is great for those who work out, but also has a mini spa with massages, facials, and a salon next door for those who want to be pampered

Fun

Port Orleans Riverside is a really great option for those looking to get the most fun out of their Disney vacation.  It is in great proximity to some of the more adult venues, such as those in Downtown Disney, and boasts a few in-resort specialties that should not be missed, even by those not staying here.

• Average per night: $194
• Bus and boat transportation - with boats to Downtown Disney, which is a great location with many shopping, dining, and drinking options
• Boatwright's Dining Hall, a very under appreciated and delicious table-service option, regular dining hall, and 2 lounges
• River Roost lounge is a favorite, mostly because of a Yehaa Bob, a popular cabaret performer with a Disney cult following

What aspect of vacation planning do you want to see next?  Let me know in the comments below!

Until next time <3

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Choosing Your Deluxe Resort

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You know you want to stay in the best of the best for your Walt Disney World vacation, but aren't sure which of the 8 deluxe resorts fits your trip the best?  Are you all about the lavish vacation, or are you in it to maximize fun?  Either way, I have you covered!

I'll be going back to breaking things down Spender vs. Saver, Planner vs. Impulsive, and Romantic vs. Fun for this post!  For a more comprehensive approach overall picks from each category (deluxe, moderate, and value), check out my post The Right Resort for You.



Spender vs. Saver
Of course, if you plan on going to a deluxe resort, you are going to be spending a lot of money either way.  But which is the most expensive, and which will save you a little bit extra?

Spender

The most expensive resort on property is the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.  Not only does it cost the most on average per night, but the amentities available only add to the possibility of spending a lot of money here.  Consider spending a day solely at the resort, checking out the pool or getting a massage!  Why is the right for the spender?:

• Average per night: $530
• Main Spa and Health Club at Disney World located here
• Numerous dining options, including signature restaurants such as Narcoossee's, Citricos, and the famous Victoria and Alberts!  Other dining options as well.
• View of Wishes fireworks in Magic Kingdom from the resort
• Monorail, buses, and boat transportation available.

Saver

The Wilderness Lodge is the least expensive, on average, of the deluxe resorts.  However, this does not mean that ameneties suffer here.  With a huge, heated pool, signature dining options, and beautiful theming, this option is great for those wanting the deluxe experience, but also wanting to spend the money you'll save elsewhere.  Here's why:

• Average per night: $348
• Signature dining option, Artist Point, and fun table-service restaurant, Whispering Canyon Cafe, located here
• Bus and boat transportation available
• Beautiful scenery to recreate the Pacific Northwest

Planner vs. Impulsive

Many of the resorts in the Deluxe category are great for the impulsive because of their close proximity to many of the parks.  This transportation availability is also great for the planner, because it allows much ground to be covered over the course of the vacation.  Here, though, are my favorite picks for both!

Planner

The BoardWalk Inn is a great place to stay regardless of what your plans are for the trip.  It is placed on the water, and the proximity to the Disney's Boardwalk make it a great place to plan meals and entertainment outside of the parks.  Here's some more things that make it great for the planner:

• Average per night: $436
• Location is in walking distance from both Hollywood Studios and Epcot
• Also, location on Disney's Boardwalk opens up great dining and entertainment options (Jellyrolls dueling piano bar, anyone?), as well as different activities, like bike rentals to cruise the boardwalk with
• Boat and bus transportation options

Impulsive

As mentioned in the original The Right Resort for You post, the Contemporary resort is great for the Impulsive.  Here's a few reasons why:

• Average per night: $380
• The monorail runs right through this building, giving you easy access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot.  Also, it is a quick walk from the resort to Magic Kingdom as well!  Though it's really hard with new Fastpass+ to be impulsive, this resort gives you the best opportunity to park hop
• The resort, like the other deluxe resorts, has great dining options, including the California Grill

Romantic vs. Fun

The last category encompasses those who want to have fun, who might be going with family or friends, and romantic, those couples that was a get-away while on vacation.  Each of these categories includes two choices!

Romantic

1st Option: Polynesian

The Polynesian is truly a tropical getaway in the middle of Florida. The theming is so immersive that when you enter, you feel like you've been transported miles and miles away.  This feeling of paradise makes me believe that the Polynesian is a great option for couples.

• Average per night: $484
• The transportation includes the monorail, buses, and boats
• View of the Wishes! fireworks from the beach at the resort, as well as many places inside the resort
• Tropical and delicious dining options and lounges, as well as round-the-clock Dole Whip availability
• Again, the atmosphere is amazing

2nd Option: Animal Kingdom Lodge

The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great option for couples looking to get away in Disney.  Though it isn't tropical like the Polynesian, it is equally as well-themed, immersing you in the African culture, and offering rooms and views right on the savannah in Animal Kingdom park.  And though it might not be the most conveniently placed, the seclusion might be enjoyable for couples to spend time together.

• Average per night: $343
• Really delicious and interesting dining options, including both signature dining (Jiko) as well as many other dining options that are hugely flavorful
• View of the savannah from the resort, including many rooms
• Atmosphere around the resort is beautiful

Fun

Though the Fun option includes two different resorts, these resorts share many amenities, and are basically attached, so I will talk about them as if they are one.  The are both within walking distance of Disney's Boardwalk, as well as Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

• Average per night (the same for both): $417
• Proximity to the Boardwalk means late night options for some fun, and ability to walk to Epcot means you can go pick a new country (and maybe have a few drinks there) every night if you want!
• Great pool area
• Between the two resorts, there are very casual dining options as well as great signature dining options
• Massage and workout center at the Ship Shape Health Club

What do you want to see Young Adult Disney cover?  Do you have any questions, or suggestions?  Leave them in the comments!

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Dining in (All Other) Resort Restaurants

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Here it is, everyone!  The last of the posts in this dining series!  This post encompasses all other restaurants in Disney resorts (minus those in the Magic Kingdom area.  For those, look here).  So many great options are at these resorts, with varied price ranges and atmospheres suited for everyone!

Shall we get started?

First, we'll look at the Beach Club Resort and Yacht Club Resort!

Look at the Beach Club Resort to find Beaches & Cream Soda Shop.

Ideal for: The Saver

Price Range: Under $15, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Beaches & Cream

• This restaurant is great for the saver, because the food and theming are great, but prices are reasonable.  Also, share the kitchen sink with a group for a great value!
• Pros:
• Large menu of desserts, all of which are wonderful
• Fun, nostalgic theming
• Cons: Though it's done well, the food on the menu is pretty standard
• Other Notes: Beaches & Cream is home to the Kitchen Sink, an ice cream dessert that is served in a replica kitchen sink, and has a large host of ingredients.  It's huge, but a Beaches & Cream favorite.

Next, look at the Beach Club's Cape May Cafe.

Ideal for: Those who want to have Fun, the Planner

Price Range: $15-60, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Dinner

• When I think "Clambake," I think of a bunch of friends at the ocean with a seafood buffet.  And to me, Cape May Cafe provides that feeling with their dinner buffet.  Also, this venue is great for the planner, because it's popularity and proximity to Epcot makes it something that much be planned ahead of time.
• Pros:
• Comfortable seating
• Lots of really good seafood at the clambake dinner buffet
• Cons:
• Lots of kids at breakfast, because it's a character meal
• Food traffic is pretty heavy in the restaurant because of the buffet location
• Other Notes:
• If you want to see the characters, keep in mind that beach-themed Mickey does not appear here.
• If you are a seafood lover, keep this in mind as a choice on a day you're in Epcot.  The Beach Club resort is in walking distance, and the seafood at this buffet is really tasty.

At the Yacht Club Resort, try Captain's Grille.

Ideal for: The Impulsive

Price Range: $10-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• It is typically very easy to get a table here without a reservation, even with it's great location in the Yacht Club Resort.
• Pros:
• Delicious seafood and good breakfast choices
• Good service
• Cons:
• Limited menu choices for lunch/dinner.
• Theming is subtle and nice, but slightly outdated
• Other Notes: Though the breakfast buffet has some nice, standard options, be sure to consider the menu.  The selection of specialty breakfast items is definitely not to be passed up!

Also at the Yacht Club, reserve a spot at Yachtsman Steakhouse.

Ideal for: The Spender

Price Range: $30-60, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: Yachtsman

• A signature dining option, the Yachtsman Steakhouse is really great for those willing to pay top dollar for a delicious meal.
• Pros:
• Comfortable seating
• The food is consistently very good, despite the fact that the menu frequently changes based on seasonal ingredients
• Cons:
• Very plain, pretty unexciting theming
• Service is often slow
• Other Notes: The entrance of the restaurant offers a view of the steak trimming room, where you can observe the aging process of the delectable steaks offered here.

Another deluxe resort with a lot of dining options is the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

First, we'll look at Boma, located in the Jambo House.

Ideal for: Those who want to have Fun

Price Range: $15-60, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Dinner

• The ethnic flavors on the buffet and extensive list of alcohol would make this a great venue to dinner after a day at Animal Kingdom.
• Pros:
• Beautiful, African-inspired decor throughout the restaurant
• Large selection of African wines and beers
• Really great food and desserts (including the "cult favorite," zebra domes)
• Cons: Though there is some plainer food, it is a lot of ethnic flavors and might not suit all tastes
• Other Notes:
• Boma loosely translates to a fence made of sticks, and this motif is found throughout the decoration of the restaurant.
• The Animal Kingdom Lodge boasts the largest collection of African beers and wines outside of the African continent itself.

Also in the Jambo House is Jiko - the Cooking Place.

Ideal for: The Spender, the Romantic

Price Range: $30-60, or 2 table-service credits

Link to Menu: Jiko

• The beautiful scenery is very fitting for a date night, and the price tag of this signature dining option is really worth it for the great food and decor.
• Pros:
• Also has a huge selection of African wines and beers
• Beautiful scenery inside and outside the restaurant, with very intricate details
• Food is really great, and consistently remains that way
• Cons:
• Seating in many places, but not all, are quite cramped
• African and Ethiopian flavors are not suited to everyone's palate
• Other Notes: This is a really great signature dining option with very different flavors and themes than many of the other signature restaurants.  This is a great pick for a day spend in Animal Kingdom!

The last restaurant, Sanaa, is located in the Kidani Villas.

Ideal for: The Planner

Price Range: $15-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Lunch, Dinner

• The food here is really yummy and reasonably priced, but it's location in the Kidani Villas makes some forethought and planning necessary.
• Pros:
• View of Sunset Savanna as you dine
• Food is very interesting and flavorful, and definitely worth trying
• Cons:
• Bread service is not complimentary here
• Food has very ethnic flavors, like the others at the Lodge, and might not be best for all
• Takes a good bit of time out of your day
• Other Notes: Sanaa means art in Swahili, and the restaurant really embraces that theme with the rich designs and decorations throughout.  As the restaurant includes a view of the savanna, you might want to stick to lunch or early dinner here to be sure that you will be able to see the animals before it gets too dark.

The Old Key West Resort Villas has Olivia's Cafe.

Ideal for: The Saver

Price Range: $10-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Breakfast, Lunch/Dinner

• The food here is good, and for great prices, making it an ideal option for the saver.
• Pros:
• Very homey, comfortable atmosphere
• Really good desserts
• Cons:
• Typical visitors are vacationers from the Vacation Club Villas at Old Key West, so others visiting may feel like "outsiders"
• Food is good, but nothing special
• Other Notes: The pictures on the walls come from vacationers at the Villas that send in pictures themselves to be hung there.

The Saratoga Springs Villas host the Turf Club Bar and Grill.

Ideal for: ...sorry, Turf Club, but no one.

Price Range: $15-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Turf Club

• Unless you're staying at this resort, Turf Club's not-so-great reviews means that there isn't too much of a reason to make your way here.
• Pros:
• Standard fare that can fit most people's tastes
• Get's away from the "Disney" feel if you need a break
• Cons:
• Very little theming, mostly just feels like the hotel itself
• Food is just mediocre
• Other Notes: It seems that this restaurant is going through a "tired out phase," and unfortunately isn't the best quality anymore.

The Maya Grill is the table-service option at the Coronado Springs Resort.

Ideal for: The Romantic

Price Range: $15-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Maya Grill

• This restaurant is located in the most romantic of the moderate resorts, Coronado Springs, so hungry couples should think about stopping in.
• Pros:
• Really good margaritas
• Decor is nice, with a relaxing but still classy atmosphere
• Cons:
• Waits to be seated can be long, even when it isn't busy
• There is a mixture of Latin American foods and standard burgers and things, which makes the menu feel very non-authentic
• Other Notes: The food here is fine, but probably not worth the trip if you aren't staying in the Coronado Springs resort.

And at the Caribbean Beach Resort you will find Shutters.

Ideal for: The Impulsive

Price Range: $15-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Shutters

• Typically easy to get a seat, Shutters offers some yummy food, and a fun atmosphere.
• Pros:
• Outstanding service
• Pretty good food, especially menu items with a Caribbean flair
• Cons:
• The rooms are large and echo-y
• Desserts here are pricy and not great
• Other Notes: Like Maya Grill, this restaurant is probably best for those staying at the Caribbean Beach Resort, and does not warrant a trip there specifically.  That being said, it is quite good for being a moderate resort restaurant.

And the last table-service restaurant on Disney property is in the Port Orleans Riverside Resort, named Boatwright's Dining Hall.

Ideal for: It's difficult to say.

Price Range: $15-30, or 1 table-service credit

Link to Menu: Boatwright's

• It's hard for me to narrow down one type of vacationer to send here.  Boatwright's is an experience, and has a great feel, so if you have a chance to try it, it's worth a trip for just about anyone.
• Pros:
• Really nice theming with a cozy, homey feel
• Delicious creole inspired food, with a real comfort food feel
• Cons:
• Like the other heavily themed food restaurant, not all people may like the flavors
• Desserts are hit or miss
• Other Notes: Make sure to check out Yehaa Bob in the River Roost Lounge next door.  He's a resort favorite!

Anddddd we've done it!  If you've read the series of posts (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Downtown and Boardwalk, and Magic Kingdom Resorts) prior to this, and now this one, you have reviewed basically all reservation-accepting restaurant on Disney property.  Congratulations!  Hopefully it has helped you to make an informed decision about where YOU want to eat on your next trip!

I have a few ideas of what comes next, but would love to hear what anyone needs help with!  So please, comment!  Ask questions!  Suggestions are welcome!  Please!

That being said, the spring semester of college quickly approaches.  As does internship seeking for the upcoming summer.  I will still post, but with what consistency, I can't guarantee.

Happy Planning!

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