Deluxe vs. Moderate Resorts
Sometimes its so hard to make that decision.
Moderate vs. Deluxe Debate
It is difficult to make a decision where to stay at Disney World. There are so many choices, and so many things to think about. If you are wondering if you want to splurge and stay at a Deluxe resort rather than one of the moderates, here is a good guide!
Location:
Moderate resorts: The moderate resorts (Dixie Landings - now named Port Orleans Riverside, Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach and the Port Orleans) are convenient to all parks but not close enough to walk.
Deluxe resorts: Contemporary Resort is the only one with a walkway to the Magic Kingdom. The Polynesian and Grand Floridian have monorail to Magic Kingdom, as does the Contemporary. They also have the monorail to Epcot, via the Ticket and Transportation Center. However their service to Animal Kingdom and Disney MGM Studios is by bus. Wilderness Lodge has boats to the Magic Kingdom and buses to all other parks. Yacht and Beach Clubs and the Boardwalk have a walkway and boat to Epcot, and Boat to MGM. Busses to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. The nice thing about the Yacht and Beach, Boardwalk Villas and Boardwalk Inn is that they can walk easily into Epcot, and to the Boardwalk area. So you see no resort is close to everything, as WDW is so large and spread out. Beach Club is a wonderful resort and the best swimming pool. Each resort has its own list of pluses and minuses.
Food at the Resorts:
If your budget is limited for food, then moderates are easier on the budget, when feeding a family. Deluxe resorts also have deluxe prices when it comes to food and no food court, as the moderates too. The Deluxe resorts have restaurants, not just food courts, so there is more of a choice of foods.
Accomodations:
Deluxe resorts are full service hotels, with large beautiful lobbies, inside hallways, room service, and 2 queen beds. Deluxe resorts have one central bus stop and marina. They also offer valet parking, and a higher level of customer services.
Moderate resorts have outside corridors, with outside doorways, one building (not connected to room buildings) that houses the front desk, guest services, eating areas, etc. The rooms are in cluster buildings spread out over the property, with multiple bus stops. Personal choice is Dixie Landings, it offers plenty to do, as far as swimming, boating, and bikes. The resort is gorgeous and maintained beautifully. The rooms are very nice, and clean. The buses go to all parks and are really very efficient.
Conclusion:
It really depends on what park you want to be closest to, room size, amenties, and eating choices. You can save quite a bit of money staying at the moderates, and can use that money for additional activities, buying additional souvenirs, or even adding extra days to your trip. I would suggest reading all resort info here at the DisneyZone and also the official Disney World site, www.disneyworld.com before making your decision. They have detailed room information, prices, and room layouts.
