Price vs. Hotel

Usually price first, then location. We narrow it down to Value, Moderate, or Deluxe, then have a little bit more flexibility once that's decided.

We also have been known to choose hotel based on what parks/events we want to do on that trip. If we know we'll be in Epcot a lot for F&W or something, we'll book an Epcot resort area spot.

We usually just find out what the best deals are and stay there. There's something fun about almost every hotel, so we just find out how we can go most cheaply and then plan our trip around that.

We're usually doing it by price, whether using cash OR DVC points.

The only time we've stayed in the deluxe resorts lately have been when we could use the points to book it.

Usually if we're actually paying for a few "fill in days", its going to be either a value or a moderate, and the prices are going to be similar, if not the same, and we just decide which one we want to stay in.

There HAVE been occasions though, when we've had to pick a hotel when using DVC points by seeing what was available or not.

I put Caribbean Beach fairly low on my list. I bet there's something good there that I'm missing. What do you like about it?

We stayed there a week years ago, and just developed a fondness for it. I distinctly remember the room air conditioner being the COLDEST I've ever experienced, which in July put it on my good list!

We also like the decor.

Plus, love the food court and the Mickey Waffles!!

Good question! We usually pick the hotel first, as we have a pretty good idea of pricing and discounts and know what we can afford. But I've been tempted to try some of the great discounts out there for the Swolphin!

I know the Swan and Dolphin aren't actually run by Disney, but do they give the illusion that they are?

IE.. do you have Mickey stuff all over, like the toiletries, etc.