Old Key West vs Saratoga Springs? [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

chalee94

12-06-2006, 10:42 AM

Can anyone answer this question?

I stayed at Old Key West in 2005, looking for a 2007 Trip, is Saratoga Springs Better, the same, or what? They look similar, but want to try a new place without being disapointed...

Thanks!

if you need 2 double beds - OKW. (although the pullout was fine at SSR, 2 real beds might work better for your situation.)

SSR costs more in points - and the rooms look a lot more premium/deluxe/whatever IMO. (i loved the bed at SSR - YMMV.) i liked being near downtown disney at SSR, as we could easily eat there or hop buses from there to get to other resorts. if you play golf, the pro shop for the LBV course is at SSR.

SSR and OKW are fairly similar in most ways, though. if one bed is all you need and you don't mind spending a little more for a nicer room...i suspect you'll love SSR as much as i did.

beccasmom

12-06-2006, 12:51 PM

OKW is my home resort, so I'm biased. ;) But we've stayed at SSR 3 times.

OKW has larger units if that is important to you. As you probably know, the atmosphere is very laid back. It is a large resort, but SSR is much larger. Bus transport is generally reliable and fairly quick. Olivia's is a great restaurant with friendly service. Boat transport to DTD is a nice option.

SSR is a very large resort. It is quite lovely, with GREAT access to DTD - walk or take a quick boat ride. Bus transport is reliable. Location of your unit is important here, IMHO, as the resort is so large. I think a car comes in handy here if a member of your party does not appreciate walking. Eating options here are somewhat lacking, but the proximity to DTD makes up for that. There is a very nice spa for special pampering. :cloud9:

Both resorts have "neighborhood" pools with hot tubs. Both have designated bus stops for the different sections. Both have very nice main pools, with an edge to the newer area at SSR.

pb4ugo

12-06-2006, 01:00 PM

jdvm

12-06-2006, 05:49 PM

We're dyed in the wool Old Key West fans but have tried all of the other resorts. They all have advantages and disadvantages so my advice would be to give it a try. Old Key West will still be there for the next time!!
John

jaskemr

12-06-2006, 09:09 PM

When I stayed at Old Key West in 2005, I stayed in a 2 Bedroom Unit.
I'm not a DVC member, just bought my way (ie paid $$$$$)

Seemed like our bus always stopped at Saratoga Springs, and it looked equally nice.

I really liked Old Key West, and we had a great location, near the check in area, shop, Olivia's etc..

I have no reason not to return to Old Key West other than
1) Try a new resort - I might like it as much or better
2) While Olivia's is fine, we did end up eating there several times as there weren't much other options there. I had a 6 year old at the time and she would get a bit worn out, so we often times would leave the park by 4 or 5, come back, and then go to Dinner at Olivias.

Also it is myself, wife, and 4 girls, will be ages 8 to 16, and 6 people total.

So I guess to be a bit more specific in my question.
1) Is Saratoga Springs (2 Bedroom Units) equally as nice as Old Key West?
2) Any advantage in Bus Transportation (ie closer to parks). Some mentioned it is closer to DTD already.
3) Dining at Saratoga Springs - What kind of options? Similar to Olivia's?
Any more dining options at Saratoga Springs?
4) What location at Saratoga Springs would be desirable to get a 2 Bedroom unit?
5) anything else???

Thanks so much for the responses!

starbox

12-07-2006, 06:14 AM

When I stayed at Old Key West in 2005, I stayed in a 2 Bedroom Unit.
I'm not a DVC member, just bought my way (ie paid $$$$$)

So I guess to be a bit more specific in my question.
1) Is Saratoga Springs (2 Bedroom Units) equally as nice as Old Key West?
2) Any advantage in Bus Transportation (ie closer to parks). Some mentioned it is closer to DTD already.
3) Dining at Saratoga Springs - What kind of options? Similar to Olivia's?
Any more dining options at Saratoga Springs?
4) What location at Saratoga Springs would be desirable to get a 2 Bedroom unit?
5) anything else???

Thanks so much for the responses!

1) SSR units are smaller than OKW units, but they are also brand new with upscale furniture (more "country club/estate" than "beach cottage" decor/theme). OKW has 2 queen beds in a studio. SSR has the new tempurpedic mattress and fold-out. OKW has more "nature views". With SSR you can request a view of DTD.

2) The bus system at SSR is the most efficient one on property. You can walk (easy 5 min walk), boat, or bus to DTD to catch connecting busses if you want to.

3) SSR has an excellent CS restaurant called "Artists Palatee" with plentiful indoor seating and the option to take-out your food. Food tends to be more "gourmet spa" fare - flatbreads, gourmet sandwiches, and homemdade potato chips). Ther is an excllent assortment of desserts to choose from.

SSR also has a TS restaurant that has a limited menu, but excellent steak (one of the best steaks on property, IMHO). The atmosphere is a little more "fancy" than Olivias.

4) We love Congress Park because of the view of DTD, proximity to the walking paths, and the best quiet pool in any WDW resort. The Springs gives you closer access to the main pool and dining.

5) The pool at SSR has more features than the OKW pool. There is a slide, second toddler slide, zero-depth section, and interactive water play area that features Donald Duck.

JMLBrats

12-07-2006, 08:14 AM

check out www.allearsnet.com for the menus at both places. We just got back a couple of weeks ago from a trip where we did 4 nights in each place and I must say we liked both for different reasons. In my opinion, I'm not crazy about either of the eating establishments-I just think they could do so much better. I'm sure a lot of people would disagree w/that or say that since DTD is so accessable is really doesn't matter which I guess is true of SSR, but it's a little more of a hike from OKW. The hot tubs at SSR are awesome and my kids had a ball on the slide-again and again and again and again.....WheW! But the sandy play area at OKW is amazing too. As far as theming goes, although SSR is newer and very attractive, we are more prone to like OKW because we're from up North and have relatives that live in Saratogo NY so it's not very exciting for us. All that said, I think SSR is definetly worth checking out, it is a very nice resort.

chalee94

12-07-2006, 09:06 AM

So I guess to be a bit more specific in my question.
1) Is Saratoga Springs (2 Bedroom Units) equally as nice as Old Key West?
2) Any advantage in Bus Transportation (ie closer to parks). Some mentioned it is closer to DTD already.
3) Dining at Saratoga Springs - What kind of options? Similar to Olivia's?
Any more dining options at Saratoga Springs?
4) What location at Saratoga Springs would be desirable to get a 2 Bedroom unit?
5) anything else???

Thanks so much for the responses!

sorry if some of my previous advice related more to studio rooms than 2BRs.

everything new i would have suggested has already been covered by starbox...i don't think you can go wrong either way.

tor

12-07-2006, 09:42 AM

I say try them all and go back to the ones you really like.

tubtruck

12-07-2006, 09:54 AM

Furniture at SSR is much nicer than at OKW, it is very similar style as Grand Floridian which was where I was staying when we bought in and was what swung it for me. The ambiance of the place come across as more refined than OKW and is certainly more what a delux should be like than OKW which for quality is more like the moderate resorts. In defense of OKW the studio rooms are larger with two queen beds but it is more a case of quantity against quality. take a look on the disney website 360 degree tour of SSR on the Vacation club pages and I am sure you will be impressed with the rooms.

jaskemr

12-07-2006, 06:08 PM

3) SSR has an excellent CS restaurant called "Artists Palatee" with plentiful indoor seating and the option to take-out your food. Food tends to be more "gourmet spa" fare - flatbreads, gourmet sandwiches, and homemdade potato chips). Ther is an excllent assortment of desserts to choose from.

SSR also has a TS restaurant that has a limited menu, but excellent steak (one of the best steaks on property, IMHO). The atmosphere is a little more "fancy" than Olivias.

WHAT Resturant is the TS restaurant at SSR? I can't find one listed anywhere. Is it new???

Last time we bought the dining plan, which worked out well for us. So we would probably be looking for a close by TS resturant as well for days when the kids are tuckered out. We used our Counter Service primarily in the Park for Lunch, and then depending on how tired people were, we would either find a TS there, or go back to OKW and hit Olivias. Although not bad, after 3 times or so in 8 days, I was starting to wish for another option.

If SSR is real close to DTD, then perhaps that might work???

jaskemr

12-07-2006, 07:08 PM

starbox

12-07-2006, 07:50 PM

Ok I found on another post Saratoga Springs now has the "Turf Club Bar & Grill" but can't find if it is going to be listed on the Disney Dining Plan. Can't seem to see Disney having it listed anywhere.

That would be perfect it it was.

Turf Club is on the dining plan.
Here's a review with links to the menu:
http://www.allearsnet.com/ae/issue370.htm

DTD is very close as well. Earl of Sandwich is a great place for breakfast.

jaskemr

12-07-2006, 10:12 PM

Wow Thanks so Much Starbox!

This board is the best I've found for Disney.

Dang, quick and informative answers...

MUCH APPRECIATED!!!

I think this made it pretty much a done deal now.

I'm thinking I'll give Saratoga Springs a try.

QUESTION

Looking at the Layout, I would request "The Springs" first, and "Congress Park" second. Reason being I'll have an 8 year old that gets tired after a long day at disney, and just looking for short distances to dinner and short distances to the bus stops. Plus DTD seems to be closer, so perhaps we can try more resturants? I'll probably be on the Disney Dining Plan and View is less important to me than location.

Given that, Where in Saratoga Springs Should I stay?

starbox

12-08-2006, 05:21 AM

QUESTION

Looking at the Layout, I would request "The Springs" first, and "Congress Park" second. Reason being I'll have an 8 year old that gets tired after a long day at disney, and just looking for short distances to dinner and short distances to the bus stops. Plus DTD seems to be closer, so perhaps we can try more resturants? I'll probably be on the Disney Dining Plan and View is less important to me than location.

Given that, Where in Saratoga Springs Should I stay?

Assuming that the Grandstand section bus does not change the direction of the route, Congress Park is the last bus stop before the Springs. On our "tired" or rain days, we just hopped on the first bus we saw and rode to the Springs.

I'd personally choose Congress Park for proximity to the DTD path and DTD dining. My kids (8 & 10) loved that path. If you ask for the building closest to the DTD path, it's also very close to the bus stop.

SSR is also great if you make DDP reservations at another resort because you can walk to DTD and easily catch a bus to any resort.

MiaSRN62

12-08-2006, 06:35 AM

starbox says : 2) The bus system at SSR is the most efficient one on property.
I'm curious what this is based upon ? We usually stay at OKW and the bus system is VERY effecient there ? How is SSR the "most" efficient on property ? TIA :wave2:

tubtruck says : The ambiance of the place come across as more refined than OKW and is certainly more what a delux should be like than OKW which for quality is more like the moderate resorts. In defense of OKW the studio rooms are larger with two queen beds but it is more a case of quantity against quality.
SSR is definitely more formal and new. But to say OKW is more like a moderate and to downplay the quality one gets here is way off imho. Not everyone likes "Ethan Allen" formal while on vacation. While it is a nice alternative to those who do like it, we much prefer the laid-back, relaxed style of OKW. Has nothing to do with "quality". Rather it's just a different ambience. OKW has the largest bathrooms of all DVC studios. A moderate doesn't give u a kitchenette or balcony or a large bathroom. I don't think I agree with the analogy. And if you stay in a room larger than a studio, the larger balconies can't be beat. OKW has huge balconies and we can actually fit our entire family of 5 out there for meals or board games etc (used to fit 6 when my mil was still with us). This is a huge "plus" for us.

Yes, OKW decor is much less fancy than SSR, but that is in keeping with the themeing of the resort. That's what "Key West" is all about. I wouldn't expect to see dark formal furniture there. Disney themes appropriately. I happen to be one who prefers the light and airy colors/decor of OKW. This and a very laid-back atmosphere is what I look for on vacation. But to say I'm giving up "quality for quantity" is way off.
Yes SSR is nice.......but it's not "better" than OKW or any other DVC......just "different". So I think each of these DVC resorts has something unique to offer guests who stay there. It's just a preference.

starbox

12-08-2006, 06:49 AM

I'm curious what this is based upon ? We usually stay at OKW and the bus system is VERY effecient there ? How is SSR the "most" efficient on property ? TIA :wave2:

OKW has more efficient bus transportation that the other deluxes (exculuding SSR) that all share busses with other resorts.

SSR is the most efficient bus transportation on property because:

1. The circuitous route at OKW is s-l-o-w - it takes busses less time to make the loop through the resort at SSR. (Although the proposed route including the grandstand may change this).

2. Tour busses does not compete for drop offs in the same bus stop. We missed a bus waiting at the main area because a tour bus pulled up and the OKW bus skipped the main stop while it unloaded people and luggage.

3. The proximity to DTD makes SSR the only resort on property that has an efficent, simple way to travel from resort-to-resort. This is a HUGE advantage for families like ourselves that do alot of resort-hopping to dine and want to use Disney busses to do so.

And, in my opinion:

4. It has always seemed that SSR has the most busses running. When we have stayed elsewhere, we always saw SSR busses more than any other resort. On our last trip to OKW, we waited at the MK while THREE SSr busses came and went (half full because there were so many busses). OKW was backed up so far that there was still a line even after the second standing-room-only bus came.

OT - for some reason CBR seems to have the worst in terms of numbers of busses out there- I think I've seen one CBR bus in my life.

MiaSRN62

12-08-2006, 07:02 AM

Starbox, while I respect your opinion, we have never ever had an OKW bus pass us and we've owned there for 6 years so I think I would have noticed by now. It's all of about 8-10 min for the OKW busses to make the complete loop through the resort.
Also, just coming off a stay at CBR (this past weekend) and the busses ran great.
The proximity to DTD makes SSR the only resort on property that has an efficent, simple way to travel from resort-to-resort. This is a HUGE advantage for families like ourselves that do alot of resort-hopping to dine and want to use Disney busses to do so.
I respectfully disagree again. I don't believe DD is always the best place to catch a connecting bus to another resort because I tend to find the busses run less frequently from DD. We have no problem whatsoever taking a bus from OKW to any theme park (whichever shows up first). Then we catch the desired resort bus from that park. Since busses run more frequently to and from the major theme parks (in our experience), we find getting to other resorts just as efficient as one staying at SSR.
As for SSR having the most busses running.....again.....never observed that ? Friends of ours stayed there in Sept and were not overly pleased with the SSR bus system. They ended up relying on their rental car. Now this is coming from them, not me. I have not stayed at SSR. While I'm not personally saying their bus system is slow, I also don't think it's the "most" efficient as you claim. I'd say it's right on par with the other DVC resorts.
Maybe it's an individual perspective on both our parts, but (respectfully) I just don't agree with your statements about the bus service.

dumbo71

12-08-2006, 12:29 PM

I'm curious what this is based upon ? We usually stay at OKW and the bus system is VERY effecient there ? How is SSR the "most" efficient on property ? TIA :wave2:

SSR is definitely more formal and new. But to say OKW is more like a moderate and to downplay the quality one gets here is way off imho. Not everyone likes "Ethan Allen" formal while on vacation. While it is a nice alternative to those who do like it, we much prefer the laid-back, relaxed style of OKW. Has nothing to do with "quality". Rather it's just a different ambience. OKW has the largest bathrooms of all DVC studios. A moderate doesn't give u a kitchenette or balcony or a large bathroom. I don't think I agree with the analogy. And if you stay in a room larger than a studio, the larger balconies can't be beat. OKW has huge balconies and we can actually fit our entire family of 5 out there for meals or board games etc (used to fit 6 when my mil was still with us). This is a huge "plus" for us.

Yes, OKW decor is much less fancy than SSR, but that is in keeping with the themeing of the resort. That's what "Key West" is all about. I wouldn't expect to see dark formal furniture there. Disney themes appropriately. I happen to be one who prefers the light and airy colors/decor of OKW. This and a very laid-back atmosphere is what I look for on vacation. But to say I'm giving up "quality for quantity" is way off.
Yes SSR is nice.......but it's not "better" than OKW or any other DVC......just "different". So I think each of these DVC resorts has something unique to offer guests who stay there. It's just a preference.

I agree with this post totally.

Also I DO NOT find SSR to be upscale in any way shape or form. The resort is a generic cookie cutter Disney Resort. What makes SSR upscale??? It might as well be the BCV just moved over near DTD. The theme stinks, really.

OKW wins hands down over SSR. Why go all the way to Florida to stay in a resort based on an unknown upstate NY destination. I don't want to visit upstate NY let alone go to WDW and stay there.

OKW is the best built DVC Resort to date. It also has the lowest popints and largest rooms, enough said.

Before the flames start, yes I own SSR but I don't stay there. I don't book more than 7 months in davance so the "buy where you want to stay" doesn't apply to me. I kept this resort for the longer contract and because I feel that longer contract will mean higher return say 10 years from now when I'll likely dump my remaining points.

SSR isn't bad per say but to act like it is superior to OKW is comical in my view.

Mickeygolf

12-08-2006, 01:06 PM

Dumbo71, I think you're a reincarnation of Richyams. Older DVC Disers will understand this better.

I think Starbox is just proud of their home resort. The opinions given were stated as factual, but we all know there are no facts in what was stated. It is not that slow to make the circuit, I've never been passed at the Hospitality house because a tour bus or ME bus was there, it took me almost an hour and a half to get from OKW to GF via DTD buses. I could have went to MK, caught the monorail and been there much faster, and the assertion that there are more SSR buses may or may not be true, but it didn't happen that way the week after Thanksgiving this year. Every park we went to we were thankful at the end of the night that we were in the OKW line as opposed to the SSR line for buses. They were really long that week. It all depends on your timing and experience.

I'm an OKW owner and that's where my family likes to stay. We'll get around to all the other resorts some day, but our preference is OKW. The size of the rooms, ease of transportation, and the overall feel are what make it great for us. But everyone is different that's why we have so many nice DVC resorts now.

I appreciate Starbox vigor, but they are truly only opinions. Everyone needs to discover which DVC resort fits them the best.

Good luck!!!

MiaSRN62

12-08-2006, 01:30 PM

Mickeygolf says: I appreciate Starbox vigor, but they are truly only opinions. Everyone needs to discover which DVC resort fits them the best.
Agreed......and starbox is proud of SSR (rightfully), but I can assure you most people are of their "home". I agree they painted SSR in a wonderful light, but people need to experience it for themselves. I just felt the negative comments about OKW being more closely related to a mod (by Tubtruck) were way off.
I was talking about my personal experiences while staying at OKW since becoming an owner there in 2000. I am just as proud of OKW, but realize not every resort is right for every person. They each have their strengths and weaknesses.

dumbo71

12-08-2006, 01:36 PM

Dumbo71, I think you're a reincarnation of Richyams. Older DVC Disers will understand this better.

:offtopic: but who is Richyams???

I am in agreement that there is no one right resort for everyone.

Try them all and develop your favorite.

MiaSRN62

12-08-2006, 01:51 PM

but who is Richyams???
Dumbo,
Rich was a very colorful/animated poster on the DIS. He truly loved OKW and would sing it's praises every chance he got. He often got himself in hot water though with other DVC'ers......particularily BWV owners. His posts were fun and interesting to read and he often got into some very heated debates with other DVC/DIS'ers.
Sadly, he passed away a couple years ago. Even though he could get under your skin at times, many people still miss him and his thoughts and ideas. Many of his posts would really give ya a good chuckle. Here is a link on the Memorium board here on DIS :
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=641599
Hope this helps explain who Rich was.
Take care,

Mickeygolf

12-08-2006, 02:00 PM

Thanks Maria, couldn't have summed up Rich any better than that. He was a lot of fun and I miss him on these boards. I guess I always liked him so much because we both owned at OKW and as you said he was one of it's biggest supporters.

NCRedding

12-08-2006, 02:09 PM

I've stayed at both, and enjoyed both trips. I do prefer OKW with the larger rooms, and fewer points. I certainly wasn't disppointed in my trip to SSR.

However, I VERY much disagree with the statement that SSR buses are the most efficient. We were at SSR in January, and planned to just rely on disney transport. After the first day, we knew that would not work so we rented a car from the CCC and had a much better trip after that! I relied on OKW transportation on our last trip there, and never moved our car, except to go off-site.

AJMlovesRLM

12-08-2006, 02:18 PM

We satyed at a dedicated 2 BR in OKW in Sept. and next month we are staying in a SSR GV!

The low-points and over-sized rooms is what made us go for OKW last time. IMHO, it is a wonderful place and we will definately stay there again (but we will request a bldg. AWAY from the bus stop - too lound & we rent a car!). However, now that a GV is needed, we figured the new SSR would be the best DVC could offer and we just had to check it out!

Hopefully we have the opportunity to try all of the DVC resorts in the future. The BCV and the VWL interest me big time!

starbox

12-08-2006, 03:55 PM

Agreed......and starbox is proud of SSR (rightfully), but I can assure you most people are of their "home". I agree they painted SSR in a wonderful light, but people need to experience it for themselves. I just felt the negative comments about OKW being more closely related to a mod (by Tubtruck) were way off.

I don't know if I'd say I am "proud" of SSR, but I do think that each resort has strengths and weaknesses (SSR included). The bus transportation set-up, in my experience and opinion, a strength of SSR (mostly due to being so close to the DTD hub). I think OKW bus transport is better than the DVC's attached to deluxe resorts, but I had two really bad bus experiences at OKW (once when we missed the Good Morning song at MK because of the tour-bus unloading and skipping of our stop and once when we had to wait over 45 minutes for a bus after MK).

OKW has strengths that SSR does not have: The theming is much more clever and whimsical. The rooms and balconies are larger. There are 2 queens in a studio. The bathrooms are much larger. The points are lower. The community hall at OKW is better (in my opinion) because it has table games. There is a sand-play area.

SSR has strengths that OKW does not have: There is indoor seating for the CS restaurant. You can request a view of DTD and walk there very easily, which allows you to use DTD as a transportation hub if you choose. The pool has more features. The resort is newer and has new beds/sofas. There are more walking/jogging paths/and a more fully equipped fitness center/spa.

I don't see how anyone could say that the furninshings at one resort are "better", just as I don't think you could say that Turf Club or Olivia's are "better" because they are totally and intentionally different. SSR and Turf Club are more "country club" and Olivia's and OKW are more "beach house". Lots of people go to the country club and have beach houses and love both atmospheres. :sunny:

I honestly did not mean to sound like a SSR cheerleader. :cheer2: The OP was asking specifically if a stay at SSR would be "disappointing" after OKW. I don't think it would be. I don't think a stay at OKW would be dissapointing after SSR either. Each DVC resort has something special to offer to guests, and none of the DVC resorts are subpar. :goodvibes :goodvibes

jaskemr

12-08-2006, 05:04 PM

I've only been Disney once in recent years and Stayed at OKW in 2005.
We had a 2 bedroom villa.

Are people saying a 2 Bedroom villa at Saratoga Springs is smaller than a 2 bedroom villa at Old Key West?

We had plenty of room at OKW, 2 bedrooms, 2 Baths, large balcony.
How do 2BRs compare between the 2 resorts besides the decor?

Since I've only stayed at OKW once, and that's it, I can't compare the 2 resorts. OKW was perfect for us, and Staying in the same exact villa would make our 2nd trip easier because we know what to expect and how the busses run (we were close to the the main building/entrance (Building 11?), and often times on the return bus, we would get off at the first stop and just walk past Olivias and right to our place because it was way quicker than riding the bus all the way around OKW (ie we were last to get on and last to get off).

The bus stop there was quite congested at times and the tour buses etc did clog it up often times. I didn't see any bypass the stop, but it did add time while they waited in line.

I'm considering Saratoga Springs because it's a different resort with what appears to be similar accommadations and price to Old Key West. The fancier decor I won't really care for, OKW was just fine for me. Just hoping if I choose Sarasota Springs, I won't end up regretting not staying at Old Key West.

MiaSRN62

12-08-2006, 05:38 PM

starbox says : I don't know if I'd say I am "proud" of SSR, but I do think that each resort has strengths and weaknesses (SSR included). The bus transportation set-up, in my experience and opinion, a strength of SSR (mostly due to being so close to the DTD hub).
Starbox,
Didn't mean to paint you as a SSR cheerleader. It wasn't meant in a bad way. I think all owners should be proud of their home though.
I agree about strengths and weaknessess in the various DVC resorts and stated this in my post #25. We are all free to express our personal opinions about the resorts. There will be those that agree and those that do not. I agreed with just about everything you said about SSR except the busses. I don't see that as a "true" general statement. I never experienced anything like what was mentioned about the OKW bus stop either. It may be true based on your own personal experiences though (which as you stated, were 2 bad experiences at OKW). Law of averages...I've stayed at OKW many times over 6-7 years and never had any problems. I fully believe anything can happen at ANY resort though. Just because you haven't had to wait 45 min at SSR yet, doesn't mean that might not happen in the future or that others already haven't experienced. I still stand firm though, that imho, busses in DD area run less frequently than they do from the major theme parks and I'm not even sure they run in the mornings before the shops/restaurants at DD are open ? So getting to an early morning breakfast at one of the hotels might be a little tough from DD ? But perhaps your experiences have been different. Either way, it's nice to be able to share our varying opinions.
Jaskemr says : Are people saying a 2 Bedroom villa at Saratoga Springs is smaller than a 2 bedroom villa at Old Key West?
Yes, the OKW villas are the largest. You will most notice the size difference in the living/dining area. Also, the balconies are larger at OKW though I have heard there are some balconies at the other DVC resorts that are comparably sized, but they seemed to be mostly some isolated corner units. I've never stayed at SSR, only seen it from the tour we took in August. At OKW, all 5 of our family members can sit out on the balcony for a meal or a board game etc (we used to fit 6 comfortably when my mil vacationed with us), while I have not been able to do that while staying at some other DVC resorts. Just a head's up. For us, the larger balconies are important, for others they may not be a factor. Other than the size of the living/dining room and balcony, I think you'd be happy with SSR. Everything is very pretty and brand new there.

jaskemr

12-08-2006, 07:22 PM

I want to thank everyone for providing input into this thread.

I appreciate the differences in opinions and experiences people have had.

This has been a most informative thread!

I also like that you have been able to disagree and debate different points of view in a respectful way! It definately helps hearing the pluses and minuses.

A couple more questions on SSR,
1) If I was to stay there, and it seems like the most recommended part would be "Congress Park" (although I probably would have picked "The Springs", do to the location of the onsite resturants, etc), which building would be the best in Congress Park?

I found a map at: http://www.wdwinfo.com/resortmaps/Saratoga.htm

The one on the far right? Or any? Closest to the bus stop? Is there really much difference in walking distance no matter which one? (No scale on the map, so I don't know if it's 100 yards or 1/2 mile.)

2) Does SSR have high speed internet like OKW for $9.95/24 hours or what ever the charge is. More simply, Does SSR have high speed internet available in the villas?

Thanks again for all your responses.

starbox

12-08-2006, 08:33 PM

I've stayed at OKW many times over 6-7 years and never had any problems. I fully believe anything can happen at ANY resort though. Just because you haven't had to wait 45 min at SSR yet, doesn't mean that might not happen in the future or that others already haven't experienced. I still stand firm though, that imho, busses in DD area run less frequently than they do from the major theme parks and I'm not even sure they run in the mornings before the shops/restaurants at DD are open ? So getting to an early morning breakfast at one of the hotels might be a little tough from DD ? But perhaps your experiences have been different. Either way, it's nice to be able to share our varying opinions.

I agree that bus glitches (and check-in glitches and room cleanliness/readiness issues) are not resort-specific problems. Some problems can, justifiably, color a person's opinion of a resort (although I've never encountered a cleanliness issue, there have been a few examples shared on the boards that I think would put me off of a given resort forever - so I do understand people being upset), but that does not mean a resort is "bad" or that other guests have not had magical stays.

I'm glad to hear that the bus situation at OKW is generally good, since the whole bus thing is important to us. I must have gotten a string of bad luck for some reason :confused3.

As for using DTD in the morning, we are not morning enough people to do a breakfast before the parks open. If breakfast was at Chef Mickey's, the GF, or O'Hana, I'd just take a MK bus though. The busses start running from the marketplace at DTD pretty early, but they don't start stopping at Westside till around 11:00.

In general, the DTD hub has worked very well for us. Pre-DVC, we used to bus to DTD from our resort and resort-hop that way. We actually stayed at POR one year just to have the boat to DTD because we thought it would make resort-hopping via. DTD easier. We :love: the ferry boat rides, but found they are not a very efficient way to travel if you're trying to make a reservation.

MiaSRN62

12-08-2006, 10:07 PM

starbox says : As for using DTD in the morning, we are not morning enough people to do a breakfast before the parks open.
I just wanted to give others the head's up on this. And whichever route one uses to get to another resort from their resort, allow a minimum of 1 hour to get there if not more.

Jaskemr asks : Does SSR have high speed internet like OKW for $9.95/24 hours or what ever the charge is. More simply, Does SSR have high speed internet available in the villas?
Yep ! If you don't have your own ethernet cable, there should be one you can use in the closet. You're good to go at SSR :thumbsup2
Sorry I can't answer your other question about SSR. I'm sure someone will have the answer for ya.

Cruelladeville

12-08-2006, 10:36 PM

I just returned from SSR, and after a week of not having a car, I was very sore from walking everywhere. I was glad to go home, since it took so-o-o-o long to get anywhere. I stayed in Congress Park, and had to walk to DTD, to get groceries, and just to get to the bus to the parks. It wasn't my favorite, especially because all the buses were the old ones, and their bus drivers never lowered the buses, so it was a chore to climb into them! DH likes it there, so I suppose I will stay there again, but I like OKW much better. After my stay at SSR, it was the only stay out of a total of 76 stays at Disney, that I wanted to go home, because I thought that going anywhere seemed to be such a chore. Just my opinion, :stir:

jaskemr

12-09-2006, 11:57 AM

When I stayed at OKW in 2005, I didn't rent a car, and it was my first time, flew into Orlando, and I was clueless of what to do next, but we found the Magical Express Area rather quickly, and it went smoother than I expected. Nice airconditioned "Tour" bus that took us from the airport to OKW, Check in was easy, room was much larger than expected (2 bedroom in OKW). It was like a 2 Bedroom Condo, with 2 baths, 2 bedrooms, sleeper sofa, full kitchen, washer/dryer, dvd player, heck it had everything a family of 6 needed.

Bus Transportation worked well. Getting picked up at OKW was always easy, getting picked up to come back seemed to take longer but perhaps due to the time of day we were leaving.

Buying Groceries was the only problem I had. I called a cab and had them take me to a store and then called again to bring me back. Perhaps catching a bus to DTD would have been a better option, although I loaded up for a whole week.

Where do you buy groceries in DTD? We went there once for dinner and milled around, but I wasn't looking for grocery stores as I had what we needed already.

MiaSRN62

12-09-2006, 12:19 PM

Buying Groceries was the only problem I had
If you don't have a car, you can always use these services:
http://www.gardengrocer.com/

http://www.wegoshop.com/index.html

hematite153

12-10-2006, 11:35 PM

Since I didn't see this anywhere, I thought I would add one more piece of advice. Given the number of people in your group, if you do choose SSR, you probably want to request a dedicated 2BDR unit. That way you will get two queen beds (instead of one bed and one pull-out) in the 2nd bedroom.

dumbo71

12-11-2006, 08:07 AM

Dumbo,
Rich was a very colorful/animated poster on the DIS. He truly loved OKW and would sing it's praises every chance he got. He often got himself in hot water though with other DVC'ers......particularily BWV owners. His posts were fun and interesting to read and he often got into some very heated debates with other DVC/DIS'ers.
Sadly, he passed away a couple years ago. Even though he could get under your skin at times, many people still miss him and his thoughts and ideas. Many of his posts would really give ya a good chuckle. Here is a link on the Memorium board here on DIS :
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=641599
Hope this helps explain who Rich was.
Take care,

Thanks, I feel like I miss the guy and I never met him. I will enjoy looking through those quoes and posts.

I'm sure he is missed here on the Dis. He sure loved his OKW.

tor

12-11-2006, 08:32 AM

If you don't have a car, you can always use these services:
http://www.gardengrocer.com/

http://www.wegoshop.com/index.html

Gardengrocer seemed expensive compared to walmart but when you factor in the cab it is a wash, and can you really put a price on the hassle factor saving the time and aggravation of shopping yourself.

MiaSRN62

12-11-2006, 06:21 PM

Gardengrocer seemed expensive compared to walmart but when you factor in the cab it is a wash, and can you really put a price on the hassle factor saving the time and aggravation of shopping yourself.
I agree, you will definitely pay more for the service of having someone shop for you and deliver it to your villa. They even unpacked and put the food away for friends of mine. But it will cost you more. It's just an option for those that find a cab or walking too much of an inconvenience.

redsox1924

02-19-2007, 07:36 PM

We are DVC members and SSR is our home resort. As stated by others it does have nice rooms and grounds. The walking distance to DTD is awsome as well. The only downside is food. The Artist Palet is the only choice for quick food. We stayed in a two beroom unit and never heard our friends two children at all during the time frame in the other room. We perfered to eat at Earl of sandwich if we were in DTD and in the park other wise. We got sick of the flatbread that is offered 24/7 at the artist pallet. We never tried the Turf club that had just reopened shortly before we arrived. The menu looked great but with three kids we didn't want to ruin anyones evening. Ha, ha..

BroganMc

02-20-2007, 03:11 AM

A couple more questions on SSR,
1) If I was to stay there, and it seems like the most recommended part would be "Congress Park" (although I probably would have picked "The Springs", do to the location of the onsite resturants, etc), which building would be the best in Congress Park?

I found a map at: http://www.wdwinfo.com/resortmaps/Saratoga.htm

Here's a more current map of the resort. Grandstand section is scheduled to start opening something this spring. The pool and buildings nearest are mostly complete, according to recent guest reports.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u311/BroganMc_photos/14664ssr.jpg

The one on the far right? Or any? Closest to the bus stop? Is there really much difference in walking distance no matter which one? (No scale on the map, so I don't know if it's 100 yards or 1/2 mile.)

If you want to be nearer the sitdown and counter service food places (as well as zero entry pool), you're better off in the Springs. You can always take the ferry over to DTD to save walking.

Someone did a great route map with distances marked on this forum but I can't find the blasted thing. (Whoever did it, could you post it again? Or give the link to that thread. Stupid search won't work right for me.)

I believe the distances were something like .25 mile to DTD from that edge of Congress Park, and .75 mile from the Springs.

You can get a bird's eye view of the place with distance marker here:
http://local.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&cp=28.376683~-81.522422&style=o&lvl=1&scene=3950094

It's a bit out of date though. The Paddock buildings (top center) as well as Carousel (top left) are complete and open -- not dirt fields or partial buildings as the images show. And the Grandstand area (to the left of the main pool buildings) has actual buildings, pool and poolhouse. Not sure how far along all those buildings are but the ones nearest the Check-In area are standing.

2) Does SSR have high speed internet like OKW for $9.95/24 hours or what ever the charge is. More simply, Does SSR have high speed internet available in the villas?

Yup.

DMKEDM

02-20-2007, 06:51 AM

SSR's table service restaurant is the Turf Club, and we like it very much (they have great milkshakes and smoothies!)...Artist's Palette is the counter service--and since you'll be in a 2-br w/a kitchen, you might want to look over the "groceries" section...it has microwaveable meals and sandwich makings, and pastas & sauces and that sort of thing...you can please most kids who are tired (if the resaurant lines/waits are long) that way, too...

We've stayed at both OKW and SSR and love both, but SSR is hands-down our favorite...the pool area is great, the walking/strolling is wonderful, and being able to see DTD (as well as the very short walk over there) appeal to us...

I tend to think in terms of OKW when we're bringing guest...point count is less and space is bigger...when it's "just" my family, we head either to SSR (almost always my first choice) or to BCV...we love being able to walk to Epcot and BC Inn was our favorite place to stay pre-DVC...

If you're looking to try something new, SSR is a good choice...if you loved OKW, you'll almost certainly really like (if not love) SSR, too...happy vacation.

castleri

02-20-2007, 07:26 AM

If you are getting the food plan you probably won't be doing much cooking so the smaller kitchen at SSR should not be an issue. I think the washer/dryer is one of the stackable types that fit in a closet instead of the full size ones you had at OKW before. If you go to the Disney vacation club website you can compare the floor plans for both places. Choose the accomodations section and you can do a virtual tour and see the room layouts. Both resorts have much to offer and what is important for me may not be for you - I really like the extra room and the big balconys of OKW for 1 BR and bigger and the sofa in the SSR studio as well as the proximity to DTD. We also like Wolfgang Puck Express at DTD for counter service meals. Were at OKW and SSR over the Christmas/NY period and did not eat at either TS place. Turf Club menu just didn't work for our group but that's us not necesssarily others and we were eating in the parks most days when at OKW so skipped Okivias. Don't know what kind of groceries you need but you can get the basics for breakfast and snacks at the resorts. Some people also pack a separate bag with items and then just buy milk, juice, eggs at the resort. Then they use the bag for all the extra stuff they have to take home. We stayed in the middle building in CP overlooking the parking lot and bus stop and really like the location. My DH said last night that he hopes we get the same room (not one most people would choose). He likes to sit on the balcony and watch and listen to the people coming and going and at the bus stop, We were also able to see fireworks from there. I think they were the MK ones. I too found the SSR bus route seemed to be smoother than OKW in that there are not all the turnarounds but would not even consider that in my decision as to which place to stay.

You really can't go wrong at either location and I think it's very wise of you to be doing your research before you make a choice and then end up saying "I wish I had known that"

for the amount you spend to stay at either of these places you may be a candidate to become a DVC member if you plan on trips every year or so.

Good luck with your decison - you will have a wonderful trip no matter what you decide.

Brer_Mike

02-20-2007, 10:18 PM

i've stayed at each about three times and i will say that ss seems to be a little more current but okw is def more peaceful :goodvibes

weluvslinkydog

02-28-2007, 03:15 PM

I agree with this post totally.

Also I DO NOT find SSR to be upscale in any way shape or form. The resort is a generic cookie cutter Disney Resort. What makes SSR upscale??? It might as well be the BCV just moved over near DTD. The theme stinks, really.

OKW wins hands down over SSR. Why go all the way to Florida to stay in a resort based on an unknown upstate NY destination. I don't want to visit upstate NY let alone go to WDW and stay there.

OKW is the best built DVC Resort to date. It also has the lowest popints and largest rooms, enough said.

Before the flames start, yes I own SSR but I don't stay there. I don't book more than 7 months in davance so the "buy where you want to stay" doesn't apply to me. I kept this resort for the longer contract and because I feel that longer contract will mean higher return say 10 years from now when I'll likely dump my remaining points.

SSR isn't bad per say but to act like it is superior to OKW is comical in my view.

I couldn't agree more about the NY theme...TOO MUCH LIKE HOME!!!...but then again, DH and I live in CT, so we are looking for more of a vacation feel to our resort.

My question is, however, that I have heard OKW is as spread out as SSR...is this true? does it have the same "Condo" feel to it, or does it feel more like a resort?

thanks for any input!:goodvibes

starbox

02-28-2007, 03:34 PM

My question is, however, that I have heard OKW is as spread out as SSR...is this true? does it have the same "Condo" feel to it, or does it feel more like a resort?

thanks for any input!:goodvibes

I've stayed at both, and both resorts are spread out. The main difference to me is that at SSR, you can see all the buildings and at OKW, the buildings are more separated/isolated from each other.

For me, this made SSR "seem" smaller - but I think it could easily have the opposite effect - OKW could "seem" smaller since you can't see it all at once.

Safari Queen

02-28-2007, 04:23 PM

SSR TS is the Turf Club. It is fairly new.

kileybeth

04-01-2007, 11:23 PM

had never been to/stayed at either prior to this January 2007 when I stayed at SSR for 3 nights. just lovely.

did a resort tour just for fun which included OKW as well as all the deluxes and a few others.

I remember feeling SSR was way more upscale than OKW but still not a snobby feel at all. definitely made everything at OKW look a little older and used.

just my newbie opinion. We also have 4 children and after seeing the room available at SSR in a 2 bedroom can't imagine needing more room than that?

loved option of walking to DTD for more meal selections. . .

just my 2cents. enjoy whatever you decide, hey! it's all Disney!

MiaSRN62

04-02-2007, 05:49 AM

Kileybeth says :I remember feeling SSR was way more upscale than OKW but still not a snobby feel at all. definitely made everything at OKW look a little older and used.
I find SSR more "formal" than the laid-back OKW. I'm not a formal person, so I prefer the relaxed/tropical feel at OKW. SSR definitely has the more upscale decor/furniture (Thomasville) and it is newer---it should look this way. It's difficult to compare a resort that is brand new to one that has been around for about 15 years. Despite her age, I think OKW is holding up well and can hold it's own compared with the other DVC resorts.

wdluvslinkydog :My question is, however, that I have heard OKW is as spread out as SSR...is this true? does it have the same "Condo" feel to it, or does it feel more like a resort?

I find them both spread out ---in actuality, SSR has alot more rooms. I guess I feel OKW is more like a "neighborhood" feel with the white picket fences and all. I felt more of a resort feel at SSR.

kimsuenew

11-07-2007, 01:05 PM

We absolutely LOVED :love: SSR! It is a beautiful resort with many amenities and wonderful decor. The Artists Palette is a nice CS choice, with good food, and several choices. There is also a nice little giftshop inside. The pools are amazing! I would like to live there! :goodvibes

foxlore

01-14-2009, 05:28 PM

"1) SSR units are smaller than OKW units, but they are also brand new with upscale furniture (more "country club/estate" than "beach cottage" decor/theme). OKW has 2 queen beds in a studio. SSR has the new tempurpedic mattress and fold-out. OKW has more "nature views". With SSR you can request a view of DTD."

Is this true? Do all SSR rooms have tempurpedic mattresses?!?! If that's true then I'm totally kicking myself for not staying there next weekend and I will DEFINITELY make it my next destination. This mattress would make our stay much more comfortable...

hematite153

01-14-2009, 05:57 PM

Is this true? Do all SSR rooms have tempurpedic mattresses?!?! If that's true then I'm totally kicking myself for not staying there next weekend and I will DEFINITELY make it my next destination. This mattress would make our stay much more comfortable...

I'm not certain which brand they are (I didn't pull back the sheets to check), but, the beds and sofabeds are both very comfortable--I almost never say that.

foxlore

01-14-2009, 06:21 PM

I'm not certain which brand they are (I didn't pull back the sheets to check), but, the beds and sofabeds are both very comfortable--I almost never say that.

Well I think I'll have to try SSR next... We just went to CSR and boy the beds were hard... They're new and the updated room was nice, but honestly the new bed wasn't as comfortable as the old one... We opted to go back to CSR instead of WL after being unable to get a king at WL and hearing people complain of sinking into old mattresses there... It would sure be nice to have a truly comfy bed... ;)