So, I realize that Disneyland is not the first thing you think of when you think ‘luxury’ travel destination, but we are not ashamed to admit that as much as we love luxe food, wine and culture in travel, we also like to indulge our family in an annual pilgramage to The Happiest Place on Earth.
We do have our way of putting a little luxe into Disneyland by staying at the Disney Grand Californian Hotel and Spa. So it was to my delight to discover that Disney is running a Summer promotion for up to 40% off stays at Disneyland Resort Hotels (Disney Grand Californian Hotel and Spa, Paradise Pier and The Disneyland Hotel). The summer promotion is for arrivals from May 1 to September 29, 2010, with a 2-night minimum stay and you must book by September 1, 2010. I scored a killer deal on a theme-park view room at the Disney Grand Californian Hotel and Spa with the most important detail – a bunk bed for the kids. If you haven’t yet stayed at the Grand Californian because it was outside your price range, this is a perfect time to get incredible value on a luxury hotel in the heart of Disneyland.
You can find full details at Disney.com. Here’s the quickie on the average room rates you can expect:
- Disney’s Paradise Pier® Hotel
Enjoy 30% off standard room rates starting at $168/night* - The Disneyland® Hotel
Enjoy 35% off standard room rates starting at $169/night* - Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa
Enjoy 40% off standard room rates starting at $213/night*
All three of Disneyland’s resort properties are great, but there are so many things we love about The 
Grand Californian, most importantly the convienence of its direct entrance into California Adventure Park, and proximity to Disneyland and Downtown Disney.
The luxury is also in the details throughout the property including the beautiful Arts and Crafts-era architecture, soaring lobby, carved wooden headboards, armoires, and leaded-glass lights. You would almost forget you are in Disneyland would it not be for the subtle embedded woodland creatures such as Bambi in the shower curtains, and Snow White prints on the walls.
The Grand Californian Hotel offers the perfect mix of kid-friendly activities, along with some perks for parents. The pool is one of the best of the three Disneyland Hotel properties and its character breakfast in the Storytellers Cafe gives kids a chance to dine with Chip and Dale, Brother Bear and other favorite furry Disney creatures. For parents, you can take a little downtime from the hustle-and-bustle of the park to sit in the rocking chair by the roaring fireplace, indulge in the hotel’s luxurious Mandara Spa, or have a date night with fine California wine at Napa Rose.
While this deal only applies to standard rooms, I definitely have my eye on the new Villas at Disney Grand Californian. These new villas just opened a few months ago and are luxe family-friendly vacation homes located in the hotel just steps away from the parks. With full kitchens and studio to one and two bedroom options, these Villas are the perfect fit for families who would like the option to cook meals in, as well as partake in food at the Park. Part of the Disney Vacation Club, these villas are also offered to hotel guests if inventory is available. You won’t be able to book these online, but can call (714) 520-5060 to check availability.
No matter what Disneyland Resort Hotel you choose, if your kids are dying to see Mickey and friends, rest assured that this summer, you can find great value on a little luxurious escape from the park.
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