There is no doubt that Walt Disney World is a place unlike any other. It allows you to immerse yourself in a new world that is separate from your everyday life and it’s worries.
Exploring the theme parks in just one day is nearly impossible, therefore spending a night at one of the nearby hotels is a great idea. Unfortunately, accommodations operated by Disney tend to be quite expensive. An excellent alternative – the Swan & Dolphin Hotels, which offer all kinds of perks without breaking your bank. Use your points from the Marriott Bonvoy program and have the time of your life!
With our help, discover everything you need to know about the attractive hotel rewards program and how you can use it at Disney hotels.
What is the Marriott Bonvoy program
If you are a frequent traveler, you have probably heard about Marriott hotels. With more than 6500 hotel properties globally, it is definitely one of the industry’s leaders. But what sets Marriott International apart from other companies is its attractive hotel rewards program, which is one of the largest in the world.
So whether you opt for budget-friendly properties like Fairfield In & Suites or prefer to stay at a luxurious accommodation, in the Marriott Bonvoy program, it is easy to find a brand that suits your needs and desires.
At first, navigating through all the information might be confusing. Thankfully, the Bonvoy program is fairly simple. The main idea – travelers may collect points from making purchases and then use them for hotel stays and other exciting benefits. The next question that probably pops in your mind is how I can get Marriott Bonvoy points? Well, there are quite a few options.
Stay at a hotel
Perhaps the easiest way to get points is to stay at Marriott hotels. Typically, you will earn 10 base points for each dollar you spend at the property. For example, to reach 100 points, you must make a purchase of 10 dollars. Of course, there are some exceptions. For instance, if you choose a budget brand, the earning rate might be lower. On the contrary, those who are Bonvoy elite status holders have bigger advantages.
Use a credit card
Another option is to use a Marriott credit card. Those who are interested may choose between three options – the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card (the cheapest), the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card (the most expensive one). Each of them has its benefits, but keep in mind you must pay an annual fee. Those who are interested may also invest in a business credit card that earns Marriott Bonvoy points.
Buy points or transfer them from a credit card
If being patient is not your strong suit, it is also possible to buy Marriott points, which cost 1,25 cents each. However, it is almost never worth it. Instead – since the company is a partner for Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards – you can turn these awards into points in Marriott.
Keep your eyes open because sometimes it is possible to get points by making purchases at select partners, for example, Hertz.
How can I use the points?
The most obvious thing to do is redeem them for a free hotel stay. Depending on the choice of the accommodation and whether it is high or low season, a night with Marriott may cost between 5,000 and 100,000 points. If you wish to spend your points differently, you can always purchase all kinds of merchandise, bid for an experience, or donate your points to nonprofit organizations. Generally, these options are not the best choice because the redemption value is quite poor.
Using Marriott Points at Swan & Dolphin Hotels in Walt Disney World
There is no place like Walt Disney World. Whether you are a kid or a grown-up, there is no denying that it is a truly wondrous experience. To make your adventure even better, you might want to consider staying at a nearby accommodation such as Swan & Dolphin Hotels. Although these properties are operated by Marriott, not Disney (so you won’t be able to enjoy all of the perks), they are still a great option that won’t break your bank. Plus – you have the chance to redeem your Marriott Bonvoy points.
Whether you decide to book a stay at the Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin or Swan Reserve Resort, keep in mind they are Marriott Category 6 hotels. That means you will need at least 40,000 (in off-peak season) points to enjoy a night there, while in standard season – 50,000 and in peak nights – 60,000. Your best bet is to travel to Disney World outside typical travel seasons, but even that is not always enough. A “peak” may occur even in the offseason if there is a ride opening or something else exciting happening. Try switching between dates so that you can see the differences in pricing.
Perks of staying at the hotels
Going to Walt Disney World is fun. But with crowds and swarms of people, it is sometimes difficult to enjoy the experience to its fullest. Luckily, while staying at Swan, Swan Reserve & Dolphin Hotels, you get to make use of some great benefits. For example, have access to Early Theme Park Entry (enter the area 30 minutes before the public), extended evening hours, and complimentary transportation to all Disney parks.
Both hotels are set in the center of all action, right next to Crescent Lake, near Disney’s Yacht club, BoardWalk Inn and Beach Club. So whenever you get tired of hopping on rides, have a laidback day near the water, or simply stroll around the scenic area. What is interesting, the Disney Swan and Dolphin resorts share most amenities, although they operate as unique hotels. That means visitors from Swan can order meals from the Dolphin and the other way around.
Not sure which hotel to choose? Dolphin is the larger of two properties. Therefore it also has more facilities. Guests may enjoy the local spa, take their little ones to the kids club, and use other services such as laundry facilities. If you are traveling with the whole family, the Dolphin might be a better option because it offers the capacity of five people per room (unlike four at Swan).
Foodies, however, will surely enjoy a stay at the Swan Hotel. At the Garden Grove restaurant, guests may have breakfast together with Disney characters, which is a magical experience for all little visitors. The quality of the food seems better too.
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve – a tranquil oasis near all the attractions
A new addition to the area is the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve, which has opened its doors to visitors. Located in Lake Buena Vista, the hotel is right in the midst of all the magic of Disney. If you stay at the new resort, you also have access to all amenities at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts. Gourmands will enjoy the fact the resort will be highlighted by four new restaurant concepts. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
