Swan or Dolphin for 5

[princessesmom]

We're thinking of planning a trip for winter break in February. Our oldest is heading off to college this fall, so it will only 5 of us which opens up more possibilities for lodging. Our children will be 16, 13, and 9. Will the swan and/or Dolphin accommodate 5? Is the walk to Epcot and MGM easy? Being able to walk some places would be a huge plus for us. Is the only downside not being able to use the dining plan and not having Magical Express? Thanks!

[Mitzie]

We are a family of 5 and we have stayed at the Dolphin. The room had two queen beds and a roll-a-way. It was tight but doable. I don't think Swan will let you put 5 in a room. The problem we encountered was the vanity area. It had one sink that sat in a 'L' configuration. It made it so that really only one person could work there at a time. We have more room at a vanity area in POR or CRB since there are two sinks and it is more open. We have walked and taken the boat to HS and it isn't far at all. It is a wonderful area and we love being able to walk into Epcot. There are sooo many food options between the two parks and all the resorts. Buses to the parks were ok..we shared with BC/YC and BWI so we often had to make that loop.

[Tigerinvestigator]

We are a family of 5 that usually stays at the Dolphin. We have plenty of room and no complaints. The Swan only allows 4 in their standard rooms. You could always look into upgrading to one of the suites. They sometimes have really good deals on them and we have upgraded before. It helps if you are a starwood preferred guest.

[princessesmom]

Thanks for the feedback. It sounds like the Dolphin might be a good choice for us. The big issue will be airfare during winter break in February. Most of the NY metro schools are on break the same week, so demand is very high which means prices are very high.