The Walt Disney World Resort is no stranger to change, and while some updates bring excitement, others ignite passionate debates among Disney fans. The latest controversy revolves around the newly opened Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
What should have been a highly anticipated addition has instead sparked frustration, with many guests criticizing its design and lack of character.
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A Long-Awaited Project with a Rocky Reception
Disney first announced the Polynesian Village Resort’s DVC tower project back in 2022, with plans to expand accommodations for Disney Vacation Club members. The move wasn’t without controversy. Longtime Polynesian fans lamented the loss of the resort’s original aesthetic, fearing the new addition would strip the hotel of its signature tropical charm.
Over the next two years, construction was met with guest complaints, particularly from those paying a premium to stay at the resort while dealing with noise and obstructed views.
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Now that the tower has officially opened, guests have wasted no time sharing their thoughts—and the reception has been anything but warm. Instead of being welcomed as a refreshing enhancement to one of Disney’s most beloved hotels, the Island Tower has become the subject of intense criticism online.
“Like an Upscale Hospital”—Fans React to the Design
Social media has been abuzz with strong reactions to the new DVC addition, particularly on X (formerly Twitter).
One viral post from user OLD DISNEY/NEW DISNEY (@TRVLtruth) likened the new tower’s interior to an “upscale hospital,” accusing Disney of stripping away the creativity that once defined its resort designs.
“The DVC Polynesian Tower has captured all the romance of the demilitarized zone. There are obviously no creatives left at Disney. This hotel has the character of an upscale hospital in Oahu. Shame on Disney.”
The DVC Polynesian Tower has captured all the romance of the demilitarized zone. There are obviously no creative left at Disney . This hotel has the character of an upscale hospital in Oahu. Shame on Disney. pic.twitter.com/LrWBeuaORs
— OLD DISNEY/NEW DISNEY (@TRVLtruth) January 26, 2025
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This sentiment has been echoed by numerous fans who feel that Disney’s modern hotel makeovers have resulted in bland, uninspired spaces.
One commenter lamented the lack of “whimsy and charm,” arguing that Disney’s resorts are starting to feel more like generic chain hotels than uniquely themed destinations.
“The newer Disney hotels are sterile and lack whimsy and charm. I’m sure the hotel is great for a Sheraton or Marriott, but for these prices and the reputation Disney had, I’d like to see more.”
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Another guest expressed disappointment in the lack of Polynesian-inspired ambiance, pointing out the stark contrast between the old resort and the new addition.
“The inside is bland, the outside is also bland, and why are there big LED lights shining next to the old Poly buildings? It should be torches and the old-style lights only. Horrible. It’s like they were going for Marriott vibes.”
A Divided Opinion—Is Disney Overcorrecting?
While many fans have criticized the sterile look of the new Island Tower, others have defended it, arguing that Disney is in a no-win situation when it comes to hotel theming.
One user pushed back against the outrage, claiming that the Polynesian Tower’s subtle Moana (2016)-inspired elements are a more refined approach to theming.
“Respectfully disagree. The Moana references are throughout, subtle but very present. The whole inside wall is a mural that has all the characters from the movie. It’s an obvious modernization of the Polynesian decor of the original resort.”
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Another guest pointed out the contradiction in the backlash, stating that Disney is constantly criticized for overusing intellectual properties in its resorts, yet also faces complaints when it opts for more understated theming.
“What’s an upscale hospital?? 😂 If it were more themed, you people would complain they’re shoving IP down your throats. Nothing makes you people happy.”
The Future of Disney Resort Design
This isn’t the first time Disney has faced backlash over hotel redesigns. In recent years, the company has revamped numerous resort rooms, including giving Disney’s Contemporary Resort an Incredibles (2004)-themed overhaul and transforming the pirate rooms at Caribbean Beach Resort into Little Mermaid (1989)-themed accommodations.
While some guests appreciate the fresh updates, others feel that Disney is losing its signature magic in favor of more minimalist, corporate-looking spaces. With the Island Tower controversy making waves, it raises the question—what direction will Disney take with future hotel projects?
Will they lean further into sleek, modern aesthetics, or will fan feedback push them back toward the immersive, storybook charm that once defined Disney resorts?
For now, guest reactions remain divided. Some welcome the change, while others feel Disney has drifted too far from what once made their hotels so special. What do you think? Does the new Polynesian DVC tower live up to Disney’s standards, or has the magic been lost? Let us know in the comments!
My only beef with every Disney renovation is the height of the beds. They are high enough to fit luggage underneath. This design flaw shall be called “Screw every shorter person!”
I’m a 78 year old female with mobility/arthritic issues. Even if I were 30, I still couldn’t climb onto the mattress whose top is equal height wise to my waistline. Getting up on the bed entails acrobatic twists.