Changing mind about AKV [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

jcf

02-05-2007, 08:36 PM

Maistre Gracey

02-05-2007, 10:35 PM

The only reason I think you're mistaken is because I love the AKL theme, and don't care much for the CR.

That said, if you like the CR better than the AKL theme, than that decision is right for you!

That's why they make both vanilla and chocolate. :smokin:

MG

corinnak

02-05-2007, 11:01 PM

Well, my kids actually got more interested in the animals as our time at AKL was drawing to a close. The thing that kind of made a difference was that we got an animal identification checklist and also, I, er, commented a bit forcefully that there had been no point staying at AKL - we might as well have spent two nights at the Super 8." :lmao:

Once they got looking and started going to the other savannahs to look for other animals, they really didn't want to stop! Still, that's not much data to go on, for answering your question, and my kids aren't your kid, anyhow. It's not really the point, though. I think that MG is right:

If you want CRV and don't need the points to use in the next few years, by all means, hold out for CRV! You'll be able to stay at AKV sometimes at that 7month window anyway, I am guessing.

The usual advice isn't "Buy where you think your kids will want to stay the most." It's "Buy where YOU want to stay the most!" Right? :)

jcf

02-05-2007, 11:11 PM

Just the convenience of the monorail especially with younger child

rigsby25

02-06-2007, 06:10 AM

offtheice

02-06-2007, 06:39 AM

I too have changed my mind but for a different reason. I am currently on a wait list for BCV for 50 pts. I was going to cancel that and buy 100 pts at AKV, but I decided to hold off for a while. Yes its exciting, but I have decided to 'wait and see'. Also - after an initial period, there may be resales.

If I had all the money in the world I would buy everywhere.. I am looking at now and IMO , AKV will sell out quick . It will be a tough place to get in , unless you go down in sept, oct every yr . The way I look at it , CRV is a rumor and probably will be out of my price range anyway if it ever comes.. That being said , this is what makes disneys 8 resorts great. You can pick what you like and buy your points there, but still hope to use the 7mth window and go to the other resorts.

all5ofus

02-06-2007, 07:41 AM

Just the convenience of the monorail especially with younger child

Keep in mind your 6 year old son will likely be 10 or older before you stay at a possible CRV.

Disney1fan2002

02-06-2007, 07:43 AM

To be completely honest, I know my kids will like it there, but I did not make the decision to buy based on them. I want AKV. Don't get me wrong, the kids are excited, because they liked it when we ate at Boma and went out to look at the animals.

Am worried they will get bored? NOPE. It is a Disney resort. We will be spending most of our days in the parks. When we are at the resort, the kids are usually swimming in the pool. You don't have to stare at the animals 24/7. There will be more than enough to do between visiting the parks, and other things the resort offers, to worry about your kids being bored after 10 minutes. I am thinking, having the animals there will be good "down time" for the kids before bed after a busy day in the parks. When they have had enough of looking for the animals, off to bed. :)

I would rethink your rethink. I agree you may end up regretting it.

Disney1fan2002

02-06-2007, 07:48 AM

The usual advice isn't "Buy where you think your kids will want to stay the most." It's "Buy where YOU want to stay the most!" Right? :)

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Who cares about the kids, right? j/k!;)

When my kids start to complain that I got something they don't like, or didn't want, I just look at them and say "who paid for it?";)

bobbiwoz

02-06-2007, 08:00 AM

I waffled, and decided to "Go for it!" DH was thrilled to learn there's a concierge level...and we intend to use it! We bought 100 points. If our extended family wants to come, I checked that there will be dedicated 2 bedrooms in the new building. So, that gives us VWL and AKV with those for our extended family trips, and BWV when we want that great location. I really feel that we have absolutely the best mix for us!!!! (We also have VB for when we want a great beach vacation!)

Bobbi:goodvibes

PS. Up until this, I spent hours and hours agonizing if we should buy into BCV. For us, this is a better place to own.

Granny

02-06-2007, 08:10 AM

I was going to do an add-on here but that started to realize my son (6) would probably be bored of the animals outside the room after 10 minutes.

And I should probably save the 200 point add-on for CRV (to go with VWL 325).

Anyone else with kids think I could be mistaken -

I like being close to MK and was going to do BCV (for Easter) but given how small it is, it may be a little nuts staying there at Easter which is a crazy time to begin with. Its nice to go back and relax after waiting in lines for 2 hours:scared:

As others have said, we really can't tell you what you feel. But it doesn't sound like AKV "speaks to your soul" and that you have a particular affinity for the resort.

After all, what other resort do you want to consider based on how long the kids will be amused on the balcony? :confused3

It sounds like to me that you really aren't crazy about AKV.

On the other hand, there's no guarantee that CRV will even happen. And if it does, it will certainly be higher cost than AKV.

I think a "wait and see" attitude might work best for you. See how AKV sells (I don't think it will sell out quite as quickly as others might think). See how people like it, or even book a trip there yourself. And in another year, the CRV rumors might firm up one way or another.

CMCSDM

02-06-2007, 08:21 AM

I am a newbie. What and where is CRV going to be?

greenban

02-06-2007, 08:37 AM

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

Who cares about the kids, right? j/k!;)

When my kids start to complain that I got something they don't like, or didn't want, I just look at them and say "who paid for it?";)

Sadly my DD-14 (Second teenage year), will just roll her eyes and respond, "My Inheritance Did!"

Oy!

-Tony

twinmomplus2new

02-06-2007, 08:38 AM

I do have to say I disagree with this..My kids are 20,12,and 6 year old twins. All 4 of them love the AKL.
It is our most requested resort. I own Boardwalk Villas. and always end out the week with AKL. ( No weekend points for me)

It is not really looking at the animals it's the actual atmosphere of the place. From the music and the incense in the lobby. I can go there for the weekend and never leave the property and be very happy. I also feel the main lodge there has the best playground on the property.

I have to say with the addition of the new water playground at the Villas. It will be perfect for us. My DD 20 spends almost all her day at the pool. But the boys get bored quickly of that. Last summer we stayed at Horizon's with a very similar playground water feature and the 2 little ones wanted to saty there and forgo the parks. So it enabled ds 12 to go off with Nana and be a park commando and the rest of us to play at the pool. This is a good thing for me more quiet time. Less sibling fighting.

Lets just hope the new section has the smoothies AKL does. ( Non alchol ones)
We called my dd at schooll when we were there in December from AKL. and said Hi just called to tell you were are at AKL drinking a paw paw smoothie. and she said I hate you!! Theres no place I would rather be right now!!:wizard:

Wait can I add on more points yet??? LOL:teacher:

jcf

02-06-2007, 09:06 AM

Sav. Room? If not, it would be easy decision.

pilferk

02-06-2007, 10:25 AM

Of course, it depends. You know your kids better than just about anyone so.....

MY kids, I think, will be fascinated for a good long while...because they're fascinated with animals (on TV, in books, etc) CONSTANTLY when we're at home. Given that, I think they'll get a kick out of being able to see them outside the room.

And I KNOW my wife and I will be fascinated. I can't wait to have that first morning cup of coffee at "home", out on the balcony.

Here's a question I"ve not seen asked or answered (and maybe this is the wrong thread/place): Anyone know if, in a 1BR, BOTH rooms (the BR and the living area) will have their own balconies? I know there are no models, but...I'm thinking maybe someone asked their guide or has some inside info...

disnutt

02-06-2007, 11:24 AM

I would have minimal interest in CRV. (Sure, I look forward to using my SSR points to help gum up the ressie system for those CRV owners but that's another story!:rotfl: ) I'm one of those freaky DVC owners who is happy that SSR and AKV are away from the rush of the theme parks.

We just don't find the CR very appealling as a hotel (other than for Chef Mickey's.) The monorail is less enchanting to us than the animals on the savannah.

Glad there are so many DVC choices!:yay:

lisaviolet

02-06-2007, 11:39 AM

I am a newbie. What and where is CRV going to be?

Hi,

It's the possibility of a DVC at the Contemporary resort. A lot of people love the resort and the dream of buying a DVC right beside the MK with monorail access.

To the OP:

Do you love AKL? I'm trying really hard to bite my tongue and be open minded but when did we become so child focused in this world? Monorail access so that you have a more relaxing commute is one thing. But whether a child will be happy at any WDW resort triggers the crap out of me. Not just your post but there are so many on the DIS "Will my kids like _______?". I usually sigh and think who cares. But then again it's not about me, is it? :rolleyes:. Ie. none of my business, my issue and not your question. But I'm still am posting! Oh boy. I don't why it gets me so much!!!!

Well I went off topic. But I think kids would be happy at any DVC. They all usually talk about the pool anyway after days at the parks. But if you think transportation might be the aspect to push you one way I would wait for CRV.

All the best in your decision,

Lisa

disnutt

02-06-2007, 11:49 AM

Hi,

Do you love AKL? I'm trying really hard to bite my tongue and be open minded but when did we become so child focused in this world? Monorail access so that you have a more relaxing commute is one thing. But whether a child will be happy at any WDW resort triggers the crap out of me. Not just your post but there are so many on the DIS "Will my kids like _______?". I usually sigh and think who cares. But then again it's not about me, is it? :rolleyes:. Oh boy. I don't why it gets me so much!!!!

Someone finally expressed my feelings! I'm fortunate because I have been so sucessful at totally brainwashing my family. :rolleyes1 Whatever I like is OK by them because I make all DVC decisions. I want the kids to be happy because then they don't whine so much on MY vacation.

sixcats

02-06-2007, 12:12 PM

When AKV was announced I was disappointed. DH and I have been waiting for the Contemporary. Yet when I received the mailing from DVC we gave it more thought. Our kids loved AKL. The view changes from resort to resort. Unless it's a castle view, the balcony isn't a source of entertainment for the kids. That makes an animal view a plus for us. If they get bored they can look over the animals to the trees or buildings like they would at WL.

So we decided to buy 150 points at AKV and plan on 150 if DVC@Contemporary opens. It will give us enough for a week every other year at each.

deedeetoo

02-06-2007, 12:29 PM

I'm having a hard time with this decision. We love AKL. My kids are not bored there. We were so excited when they announced AKV and the pricing therey are offering is great. But.....

We really don't need more points. I've run through our upcoming vacations for a few years and I can do everything we want by banking and borrowing.

I'm also a bit concerned about how close AKL will be to AKV. We love Boma and Mara and the allure will go down quite a bit if its too far to walk (or there is no walkway). I'd hate to buy in and find out that its really off by itself.

So for now, I am really hoping that there will be a walkway between the resorts, and that a 1 br savanna view in summer will be doable 7 months out.

3DisneyKids

02-06-2007, 03:01 PM

If I had all the money in the world I would buy everywhere.. I am looking at now and IMO , AKV will sell out quick . It will be a tough place to get in , unless you go down in sept, oct every yr . The way I look at it , CRV is a rumor and probably will be out of my price range anyway if it ever comes.. That being said , this is what makes disneys 8 resorts great. You can pick what you like and buy your points there, but still hope to use the 7mth window and go to the other resorts.

I respectfully disagree with this. AKV will be large once compelte...almost as big as OKW and I do not think it will be difficult to get in at 7 months. Now, if you want concierge or value rooms...then, yeah, you will need the 11 month window and a host of angels to get those! :rotfl:

As for kids, I have 3...ages 4, 6, and 7...and they love AKL and don't get bored with the animals. Well, they might after a long while of it...but then we hit Uzima and that water slide...and all is wonderful! There is so much to do at AKL for kids, I think. The night time stories and the night vision goggles with the CMs, etc. Loads of fun...especially as they get older.

Hope this helps!

tomandrobin

02-06-2007, 03:35 PM

We bought DVC for us. Heck, we didn't even tell the kids that we owned DVC for the first 6 months! Just the two of us hanging in Disney! :hug:

JodyTG

02-06-2007, 03:41 PM

The usual advice isn't "Buy where you think your kids will want to stay the most." It's "Buy where YOU want to stay the most!" Right? :)

I agree with this completely. I love my two kids, too, but they are not always going to live at home.

BroganMc

02-06-2007, 04:45 PM

We bought DVC for us. Heck, we didn't even tell the kids that we owned DVC for the first 6 months! Just the two of us hanging in Disney! :hug:

Hee hee.

In truth, I'd bet most kids are just happy to be in Disney World. My niece went gaga for Pop Century and her parents were able to afford Contemporary and GF as well. Gues which one they preferred?

Starr W.

02-06-2007, 05:08 PM

When my 10 and 5 yr old pony up the dollars for the points then they get a say! :thumbsup2

Now my eldest wasn't too happy that the waitlist to VWL came through. Then I showed him the pictures on the member website, "Okay it looks good".
He's going to WDW for a treat after state tests, as long as there is a pool and he get to ride that Ellen D./Bill Nye ride over at Epcot he's happy. Sure wouldn't have changed the ressie if he laid on the floor and banged his head.

Anal Annie

02-06-2007, 09:47 PM

Barring some natural disaster or something, I firmly believe that the CRV will be announced (officially) sometime in late 2008. I think they're doing all the ground work now and will start this same exact hype all over again - just like they're doing now with SSR being almost done & starting up AKV sales. There will be an overlap window as they finish up AKV & start CRV and everybody will be like "Oh dear! Where do I buy? What do I do? How many pts. will I need"?!?! Greenban will get all the scoop & post it in real time & everybody will live happily ever after!! :thumbsup2

graygables

02-06-2007, 10:30 PM

Hi,
I'm trying really hard to bite my tongue and be open minded but when did we become so child focused in this world? Monorail access so that you have a more relaxing commute is one thing. But whether a child will be happy at any WDW resort triggers the crap out of me. Not just your post but there are so many on the DIS "Will my kids like _______?". I usually sigh and think who cares. But then again it's not about me, is it? :rolleyes:. Ie. none of my business, my issue and not your question. But I'm still am posting! Oh boy. I don't why it gets me so much!!!!

On my fridge: "If Mama ain't happy, ain't NOBODY happy" and "Rule #1: Mom is always right. Rule #2: if you think Mom is wrong, see rule #1" :lmao:

Guess where Mom loves??? AKL! Guess where kids love? AKL! For us, it plays into *MY* attitude about where we are going. DDs are NOT excited about staying at the WL for the weekend on our next trip, but once we learned about log cabin construction and spent some time looking at photos, they picked up on my enthusiasm.

A agree that CRV rumors are just rumors and IF there were one, it would be several years (heck, the new AKV won't open until 2009), so the child/monorail thing might not be that big a whoop. We absolutely ADORE the AKL b/c of it's quiet distance and we have had nothing but excellent, un-shared bus service every time we've been there. We've had a savanna view each stay, although I've only paid for it once, and it has been difficult tearing my now 8 & 10yos (OK and DH and myself) off the balcony for dinner or even a swim. It's great having them more interested in watching what the animals are going to do next rather than "what's on TV" at night. But, again, that's us, and you know your family's vacation preferences better than anybody.

ScottOKW2K

02-06-2007, 11:57 PM

Will 11 month window be need for 1 bedroom Sav. Room at 7 months ? If not, it would be easy decision.

I suspect not. I have noticed that historically the studio and two bedroom rooms fill up first (if the property has no Grand Villas). Smaller families may gravitate to the studios to save points, and the larger families need the two bedrooms because of the number of occupants. We tend to prefer the one bedroom size and have managed to get both BCV and VWL 1 bedrooms in the last year or two at the seven month window or less (we own at OKW).

Even so we are buying at VAK. The AK Lodge is our absolute favorite non-dvc property and the ability to get a guaranteed savannah view with 1 bedroom size is a real winner. Plus the possibility of concierge with relatively few points - as low as 13 for a studio vs the Disney Collection 50 points - is a real enticement. If one uses the fairly standard $10/point valuation this means the possibility of deluxe concierge for the price of a moderate. Way Cool !!

JimVL

02-07-2007, 01:08 AM

Sadly my DD-14 (Second teenage year), will just roll her eyes and respond, "My Inheritance Did!"

Oy!

-Tony:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

starbox

02-07-2007, 06:37 AM

One thing I've learned about DVC is that what I *think* makes something my :cloud9: dream resort and what actually makes it the best resort for our family are not always the same thing.

AK is my favorite park after the MK. The theme of AKV apeals to me a million times more than any existing resort. I am very excited that they built a DVC there. However, despite the emotional pull of the idea of the resort, I am waiting and seeing.

I am concerned about the lack of easy early morning and evening options. I know there's the "cup of coffee/bottle of wine on the balcony as you watch the animals" thing, but that's not really going to happen for us.

I am concerned that AK closes so early, making it impossible to do another park morning, some back to the villas, and then spend a few hours or see a night-time show at AK. I think that, eventually, AK will be expanded and given later hours - but not in the near future. Resort-hopping for dining will be complicated by the location.

I am also worried about the bus system being overwhelmed by the volume of guests if busses are shared between the lodge and the villas. OKW or SSR busses could not handle being shared with the large number of people staying at a deluxe resort. Potentially, this could make arriving at a park at opening or for EMH a nightmare.

I do think we'll end up as owners of AKV, but I am leaning towards thinking we'll get a small contract and bank/borrow to stay there every now and then rather than once a year. I just think it's too early to tell how good - or not good - of a fit the resort will be.

rigsby25

02-10-2007, 09:14 PM

I have completely changed my mind since the first post. DH convinced me that we should go ahead and get at least 100 pts. in AKV. We took relatives to BOMA last May and everyone was just ga-ga about AKL. At that time we wished we could DVC there, but we couldn't. And now we can! We purchased 2 50-pt contracts. We want the 11 month window!

jarestel

02-10-2007, 10:33 PM

TenThousandVolts

02-11-2007, 08:43 AM

I LOVE the theme of AKV but I have a problem with the location. I hope to stay there sometimes but I don't think I want points there. CR would be my very top choice for location- As long as MFs are reasonable- I will be first in line when/if that hits the market! I am going to start saving up right now for that one!

starbox

02-11-2007, 08:48 AM

I asked this question of a DVC salesperson recently. According to him, the new villas section will be about one-half mile from the main AKL building. A walkway is planned to connect the two areas.

I bet the 1/2 mile figure is from the closest edge of the closest villa to the the closest edge of the lodge.

Anal Annie

02-11-2007, 09:01 AM

I'm also a bit concerned about how close AKL will be to AKV. We love Boma and Mara and the allure will go down quite a bit if its too far to walk (or there is no walkway). I'd hate to buy in and find out that its really off by itself.

So for now, I am really hoping that there will be a walkway between the resorts, and that a 1 br savanna view in summer will be doable 7 months out.

Are there plans for another restaurant in the new section? We think that Boma is the BOMB and would be worth a short walk but perhaps there will be another restaurant equally as good in the new building?! :goodvibes My DS (now 9) insists that the donuts at the Mara were the best he's ever had! It's been years since we were there & he still talks about THOSE donuts and wants to know when we can go back to get more donuts! So funny what kids remember isn't it? :laughing: