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8 am - ‘magic time’! I’m hoping that’s sleeping time... starting to think I should just tell the kids Disney is closed. Forever.
My candid opinion is that whoever thinks that place is magical is a moron. The library on a Saturday is more fun 🤪
With kids, I’d definitely recommend Swan/Dolphin. Much easier transportation across the properties, especially if they’re still using carseats. Plus the hotels have a character brunch included as a Bonvoy check-in perk, which is great for more personal time with characters (and cheaper, and without lines). Some non-residents ride the free ferry boat from Epcot just for the brunch (and you can ride it to the park). Otherwise I didn’t think my ambassador status went very far in the two hotels, and they didn’t offer as many of the “on-property” perks and integrations we wanted. Without kids and the need to transport their stuff, I’d consider something nicer off property.
My son, DIL, and 3 kids under 5 stayed at the Marriott’s Imperial Palm Villas. Had a huge suite, but none of the Marriott perks, like free breakfast etc. But able to have grocery delivery from Publix made to hotel. Also had to park at parks. But it was much more point friendly since I was donating the points than some others. Kids liked the pool. Plus have access to the main Marriott pools, etc. on the same grounds.
You want one with “extra magic hours”
Which gives you early access (like 8am) when the park is closed to Everyone else and the lines aren’t horrific
Generally I hated Disney but I do know that!!
Stayed at the swan for a conference. Would not rush back.
I’ve stayed at both the ritz and JW - they aren’t anything special