The New Polynesian Lobby

I know a lot of different opinions about the new lobby at the Polynesian Resort are going around. Some people hate the new lobby. Some think it's OK. Some like it. The fans who are upset about the lobby are upset because they removed the grand water-feature in the center of the lobby to provide a more open lobby with more seating areas. There is a new fountain that is very small; especially compared to the original. I think the new lobby is nice. Not great, not better than before, just nice. The lobby is not 100% done yet either. The little tiki in the concept art is still coming to top the new fountain.

The fountain was removed due to problems that are not clear, whatever they were they required the fountain to be removed. Disney decided to take this opportunity to open up the lobby instead of putting in another fountain. I've been following this project from the beginning, most Disney fans were outraged when they saw the concept art. I get people's attachment to the fountain, I've stayed at this resort twice, but I don't remember ever going out of my way to see the fountain. Whenever I went to the Polynesian to eat at Ohana, or stayed there and had to take the monorail, it was just a nice view on my way to my destination. 

Former lobby

From the pictures, I like the new added seating and the ability to sit under the skylight. I won't check out the new lobby for myself until my vacation on January 1st. I completely get the disappointment, hopefully the new fountain they are adding outside will be more acceptable. The new resort sign seems to be well liked among fans. I think that the new fountain is supposed to be similar as the sign, they have the same rock work with water trickling down. The difference is the sign is bigger and not awkwardly shaped. The new fountain is shaped like coals being stacked on a grill.

Current Lobby

New Entrance Sign

The new bar, Trader Sam's Grog Grotto, is another part of the Polynesian renovation project that is supposed to be similar to the one at the Disneyland hotel, with a 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea theme. Many fans, including myself, are looking forward to this.

Hopefully this will make up for the new lobby. The lobby is not finished yet, so hopefully more elements will enhance it, such as the the tiki statue that's supposed to be on the new fountain. What do you think of the new lobby? Do you think it is a downgrade? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!And be sure to follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Grndcnyncncrse