I can't imagine anyone suffering at the Ahwahnee, though I've not stayed there, just dined in the lovely dining room and walked around the lovely grounds. For some, lack of "luxury" doesn't mean suffering. There is a vast middle ground. My wife probably wouldn't return to Camp Curry-- a bit too rustic for her-- but Yosemite Lodge would be fine and the Ahwahnee great. Even the Wawona would be fine if we had a room with a private bathroom. Nothing at all wrong with wanting luxury, as long as one doesn't expect meadows, etc. to be ploughed over to build a luxury resort in a park. But it sounds like you're willing to make do with the Ahwahnee. You might want to read up on the hotel's history in advance, to help increase appreciation of the atmosphere. It's the nicest lodging in a national park I've seen-- with the possible (possible) exception of the El Tovar at the Grand Canyon. Have fun!