I'am always amazed at the speed at which members of this site can get information to someones question!
You are all truly amazing... either that or crazy!!! :lookaroun
I will choose to believe "amazing"!
Thank you all. Those were exactly what I was looking for.
My extended family (aunts, uncles, etc., totaling 12 and maybe 14 people) is coming to WDW for Thanksgiving, and of course I am their "travel coordinator." The ones who have been before came last year on a similar but smaller trip and stayed in the FW cabins, which they loved. They have talked the other relatives into going (probably), and we have gotten two cabins for most of the time period, but are having trouble with one of the days -- or with a cabin so far.
The moderates are mostly sold out, as are other good options for this crowd (some kids, some senior citizens).
So, I am considering the Swan or Dolphin, but I have never stayed at either. The Birnbaum guide says really the only thing that distinguishes them from a Disney-owned resort is that you cannot bill to your room from the parks. I know that they share the same buses with the Boardwalk, and that there are boats that take you to Epcot and MGM.
How close is it to walk to the Boardwalk and other things? How about to Epcot?
And do you all like the Swan and Dolphin rooms?
This part of my family is mostly rural people; so while the big hotels were impressive, they really liked the rustic feel of the cabins. But we may not get everything that we want in the way of dates there, so we have to have other options. And the WL is not available.
The best thing that I like about staying at FW or any other MK area resort was always the proximity by boat or monorail to visit around other resorts and the lake, or the MK. So, that is why I am asking the questions about transportation and walking proximity to the Swan or Dolphin. That walking about and exploring while not dependent on or responsible for others is one of my favorite "quiet time" or "me time" pleasures at WDW.
So, I welcome any comments.
And thanks again for your amazingly quick response time.
Paul
P.S.: Maybe Steve could add a section to this site that just houses maps (maybe old and new)...