AKV Concierge = FIVE units?!?!

[tjkraz]

Multiple sources have confirmed that there will be exactly five units in the AKV Concierge category. All are lockoff Two Bedrooms, making for a maximum of 10 rooms.

Am I the only one who thinks this is ridiculously short-sighted? With the Concierge rooms often being only 3-4 points more than a non-concierge alternative, it sure seems like there will be a lot of demand.

I'm already seeing this as a CRT-type situation. People will be calling day-by-day for these rooms. If you're not on the phone at 9am on a given day, forget it. In fact, it seems like it will be nearly impossible to put together any significant string of dates in one of these rooms. For any given day there are likely (IMO) to be well more than 10 AKV owners hoping to stay Concierge. Even those who are successful in booking, say, Monday and Tuesday could find themselves locked-out come Wednesday or Thursday.

IMO, DVC should either have offered more rooms in this class or set the points much higher to help control demand. Opinions?

[bobbiwoz]

My opinion is that there should be more! There are only a few GV at the BWV, so MS sometimes does think small. I agree, short-sighted.

Bobbi

[dianeschlicht]

I totally agree, but I probably wont be interested in the club level because of the point schedule there now.

[crisi]

Multiple sources have confirmed that there will be exactly five units in the AKV Concierge category. All are lockoff Two Bedrooms, making for a maximum of 10 rooms.

Am I the only one who thinks this is ridiculously short-sighted? With the Concierge rooms often being only 3-4 points more than a non-concierge alternative, it sure seems like there will be a lot of demand.

I'm already seeing this as a CRT-type situation. People will be calling day-by-day for these rooms. If you're not on the phone at 9am on a given day, forget it. In fact, it seems like it will be nearly impossible to put together any significant string of dates in one of these rooms. For any given day there are likely (IMO) to be well more than 10 AKV owners hoping to stay Concierge. Even those who are successful in booking, say, Monday and Tuesday could find themselves locked-out come Wednesday or Thursday.

IMO, DVC should either have offered more rooms in this class or set the points much higher to help control demand. Opinions?


Or not offered them at all. I agree, that is incredibly short sighted of them. They seem to be creating more problems for themselves. You have to wonder if they are paying attention to their own booking problems re: Standard Views at BWV.

They might as well give us ONE honeymoon suite in the Grand Floridian for us to all fight over.

[twinmomplus2new]

If DVC offerred a whole series of club level rooms. then the club level would be overwhelmed. Having been on club level when it is at full capacity I can assure you thats not very relaxing.
It is a very low number. but given the quality of club level at AKL. It is necessary. I am glad they offered this as an alternative.

I look at it simply as If you want certain dates you have to get on the horn and start calling at the open of bussiness at your 11 month window. Everyone dial for dollars and take your chances. Perfectly fair and perfectly equitable. I consider thois a perk and I if I am lucky enough to snag a room Thanks DVC. If not I move to a regular 1 bedroom. No harm no foul. try again next time.

I also have to say.. consider the fireworks cruises. There are a very limited number of these available as well. You must start dialing and hope to score one. Again limited number and perfectly fair.:teacher:

[LisaS]

In fact, it seems like it will be nearly impossible to put together any significant string of dates in one of these rooms. For any given day there are likely (IMO) to be well more than 10 AKV owners hoping to stay Concierge. Even those who are successful in booking, say, Monday and Tuesday could find themselves locked-out come Wednesday or Thursday.This is the issue that I've wondered about. How could any member hope to get more than a day or two of their stay? Competition will be especially fierce for the nights associated with the sunrise safari.

I have visions of people checking in and checking out of Concierge villas every other day -- inconvenient for members and will cause additional housekeeping expenses if those villas end up getting a full cleaning every day due to members ending up with fragmented stays.

So I'm wondering if they will have a lottery for those villas. For those who were members at the time, how did the lottery system for holiday stays work?

[tjkraz]

I also have to say.. consider the fireworks cruises. There are a very limited number of these available as well. You must start dialing and hope to score one. Again limited number and perfectly fair.:teacher:

The difference being that when you book a fireworks cruise, you're only calling for ONE cruise. Getting 5 or 7 (or more) consecutive nights in a concierge room is going to be virtually impossible most of the year.

I never said that it wasn't an equitable system. Obviously everyone has the same access to the same block of rooms.

But it IS a poorly-conceived system.

If lounge capacity is an issue, they should have considered opening a second lounge or expanding the existing facilities. Instead of having a fixed block of Concierge rooms, why not offer lounge access as a pay-for-play option. Why even bother with this separate category? To me, it looks like the only reason for the concierge rooms is to use it as a sales tool. "Hey, now all of you concierge fans have a DVC option." Then they just hope people don't do their homework before buying.

I'm usually willing to give the benefit of the doubt to Disney and DVC, but this is just a bad idea all around. In the long run, I predict the disappointment and outrage from members unable to book these rooms will far outweigh the satisfaction expressed by those who are able to book.

[twinmomplus2new]

I ahve to say as far as day by day calling. I am one of the peopel who called in day by day for the rooms over the millenium. WDW was booked solid. then with Boardwalk we had DVC rooms come into play.
my brother had one contract, wanted all of us to spend that holiday together/ So he bought a seperate contract for cash. So we both could call.
We had 2 memberships calling day, by day.. same drill. And we wound up with all 3 of out BWV studios. It can be done.

It wasn't easy and we still laugh about how many phones we had dialing at the same time. but we did it.

This time same thing. If I can't get club level strung together. Then its all that more of a treat. if I can't get it say night 3 and 4 and I have gotten it for 1 and 2. Then I will simply book another level.

[Disney-Kim]

I think the point levels required should have been higher to help alleviate the issues we all see coming. I am glad they are low...but also realized that as a 7 month bookee...I will probably not be able to book those rooms for a long time.
;)

[Maistre Gracey]

I am one who will (attempt to) book AKV club level at every opportunity. I know there will be times that I'm shut out, but that's the way it goes. I do wish they planned more club level rooms.

Anyway, about concierge lounge overcrowding, am I mistaken that the 5th and 6th floor of AKL are club level?? If that's true, will there be fewer AKL club level rooms now that those floors will be AKV? If so, overcrowding wouldn't be an issue. :smokin:

MG

[keys2kingdom]

Or not offered them at all. I agree, that is incredibly short sighted of them. They seem to be creating more problems for themselves. You have to wonder if they are paying attention to their own booking problems re: Standard Views at BWV.

They might as well give us ONE honeymoon suite in the Grand Floridian for us to all fight over.

I totally agree, they should have just scrapped the whole idea altogether. It's going to lead to frustration more than anything else.

I was initially very excited about it until I saw the number of rooms and figured out it would NEVER happen for me (or anyone else) at the 7 month mark. Heck, it won't happen for most AKV owners let alone non-owners.

Kinda served as a buzz kill on my AKV excitement.

[Maistre Gracey]

I totally agree, they should have just scrapped the whole idea altogether. It's going to lead to frustration more than anything else.
I'm of the opposite mindset. I feel some club level units are better than none at all. Heck, this way we at least have a chance at getting it. If we don't get it, we are no worse off than we would be if they didn't have it at all. :smokin:

MG

[Starr W.]

I totally agree, they should have just scrapped the whole idea altogether. It's going to lead to frustration more than anything else.

I was initially very excited about it until I saw the number of rooms and figured out it would NEVER happen for me (or anyone else) at the 7 month mark. Heck, it won't happen for most AKV owners let alone non-owners.

Kinda served as a buzz kill on my AKV excitement.


As I gaze into my crystal ball, I see many angry threads about this in the future. ;) . I'll just wait and see as I am not that big of an animal fan, but the real lack of "official" details made me not want to jump in on the first wave. I'd rather pay a little extra down the road and see more clearly what AKV will be.

Also if they decide to presell CRV next week, I wouldn't buy unless I felt really comfortable about the whole plan.

[Maistre Gracey]

You know, now that I'm thinking about it, how hard would it be to increase the number of club level rooms? It seems like a very easy stroke of the pen. I mean, there is no difference in the rooms, just the services offered. They could just increase the points required for a regular room and turn those into cash to pay for it, sort of like the Disney Collection. :smokin:

MG

[tomandrobin]

If DVC offerred a whole series of club level rooms. then the club level would be overwhelmed. Having been on club level when it is at full capacity I can assure you thats not very relaxing.
It is a very low number. but given the quality of club level at AKL. It is necessary. I am glad they offered this as an alternative.

How many "club" rooms did the hotel give up for DVC? Each two bedroom DVC room takes the place of three hotel rooms. DVC room occupancy is 8, the hotel rooms is 12. So I am not really sure about DVC over whelming the lounge.

[LisaS]

Anyway, about concierge lounge overcrowding, am I mistaken that the 5th and 6th floor of AKL are club level?? If that's true, will there be fewer AKL club level rooms now that those floors will be AKV? If so, overcrowding wouldn't be an issue. :smokin:

MGCurrently at AKL, the 6th floor is concierge along with some rooms on the 5th floor. Once AKV opens, only the 6th floor villas will be DVC club level. There will also be some number of concierge "slots" available to AKL hotel guests. There will be only one lounge -- the current concierge lounge on the 6th-floor. DVC will operate the lounge and be compensated by the hotel for the use of it by hotel guests.

[crisi]

On the plus side, the rule of thumb for AKL - unlike almost any other resort - is "high floors are bad." Lower floors put you closer to the Savannah. We stayed in a fifth floor room at AKL last time and it would have been far nicer to be on a lower floor. So conceirge level may turn out to be a trade.

[LisaS]

I'm of the opposite mindset. I feel some club level units are better than none at all. Heck, this way we at least have a chance at getting it. If we don't get it, we are no worse off than we would be if they didn't have it at all. :smokin:

MGI agree -- I would rather have a shot at getting it rather than not even having the option. I hope they do some kind of a lottery. At least that way, you either get it for your entire stay or you don't get it at all.

[twinmomplus2new]

My understanding from the club levels perspective. Is that while they have given over rooms and thus numbers of people to DVC rooms. They have NOT substantially decresed thier own CRO club level rooms. In giving up part of those floors. They have created a new club room. Called the "Standard concierge" this is where that new category came from, the redirection of club level guests to other rooms " other meaning on floors other than 5 and 6.

As far as non AKL guests getting shut out. Thats why if you need the 11 mt window you have to buy at that resort. I can't get WL at Christmas and thats fair, Because it is not my home resort.

MGracie. You have the right attitude here... AKL owners will have the same oppurtunity to call day, day. Easy come easy go!It will all work out in the wash.:laundy:

[Maistre Gracey]

The only thing that worries me just a bit, is the day by day thing. I don't mind calling day by day, but let's say you are able to book club level on days 1, 2, and 3, but it's not available on day 4. Now you have to change the whole booking to non club. Now what if day 2 is unavailable? I guess we would just have to move rooms! :smokin:

MG

[nhdisnut]

I have to ask, if the concierge rooms are all 2 BR units, then why do they offer concierge level rooms for studios and one BR units as well?

Maybe I'm missing something?:confused3

[Maistre Gracey]

I have to ask, if the concierge rooms are all 2 BR units, then why do they offer concierge level rooms for studios and one BR units as well?

Maybe I'm missing something?:confused3
Not certain, but I thought I read they were 2br lockoffs. :smokin:

MG

[LisaS]

I have to ask, if the concierge rooms are all 2 BR units, then why do they offer concierge level rooms for studios and one BR units as well?

Maybe I'm missing something?:confused3They are lockoffs so they can be booked as a 2BR or as a 1BR and a studio.

[tjkraz]

As far as non AKL guests getting shut out. Thats why if you need the 11 mt window you have to buy at that resort. I can't get WL at Christmas and thats fair, Because it is not my home resort.


Again, I don't see anyone questioning the fairness of this move. My question is whether it is a wise move.

I don't anticipate many problems for perhaps the first couple of years. Low member count. Heck, when they open reservations (when is that again? April? May? June?), people will be able to book their entire stay in one call for dates well into 2008.

But once there are 30,000+ AKV owners and 5 rooms...watch out. Concierge doesn't interest me but I suspect I'll be on the sidelines doing one of these: :lmao:

We've all heard how an entire morning's worth of CRT reservations can be completely gone in 10 minutes. Now here we're talking about 5 rooms. I can just see the posts now:

"I'm so upset. I got someone to pick up the phone at 8:59 but the rep was was soooo sloooow. By the time he/she FINALLY managed to pull up the inventory on the computer, all of the concierge rooms were gone. Now I either have to cancel my concierge room for 12/30 or spend New Year's Eve switching resorts."

Fair? Absolutely. No tears here.

Satisfying? Well-planned? Good for the program? :sad2:

And does anyone really believe that DVC will educate new or prospective members as to what it will take to actually get a concierge room? We're not talking about getting BWV at 7 months here (which is very doable.) We're talking about the need to be on the phone 11 mos out, day-by-day at 8:55am to have any chance of getting a room. (BTW, that time is great for those of us in the eastern time zone--not so great for those in the west and abroad. In that sense, I think there is actually room to argue that the system is NOT "fair" to everyone.)

I HOPE they go to some sort of lottery system or come up with another way for members to buy concierge services. Yes, I see the point that something is better than nothing, but I'm also left thinking "be careful what you wish for..."

[tjkraz]

The only thing that worries me just a bit, is the day by day thing. I don't mind calling day by day, but let's say you are able to book club level on days 1, 2, and 3, but it's not available on day 4. Now you have to change the whole booking to non club. Now what if day 2 is unavailable? I guess we would just have to move rooms! :smokin:

MG

That's my whole point, MG. Can anyone really count on being able to get thru to MS first thing in the morning to book 5...6...7 or more nights in concierge?

I have no problem with the limited inventory meaning that only a select few get these rooms each time. The problem I forsee is exactly what you describe...people getting a few days of their trip concierge but being unable to complete the trip for any number of reasons (busy phone lines, slow MS rep, computer problems on the MS rep's end, not being able to call right at 9am one day, etc.)

I almost wonder if it wouldn't be better to mandate full week stays in the concierge class. I know that opens up a whole other can 'o worms. Just thinking out loud.

[bcpage]

Where is info like this being found (i.e. only 5 concierge level rooms)?

[lisareniff]

Currently at AKL, the 6th floor is concierge along with some rooms on the 5th floor. Once AKV opens, only the 6th floor villas will be DVC club level. There will also be some number of concierge "slots" available to AKL hotel guests. There will be only one lounge -- the current concierge lounge on the 6th-floor. DVC will operate the lounge and be compensated by the hotel for the use of it by hotel guests.

Lisa, Is this still conjecture or has this been been verified by anyone? I might have missed some posts. I'm starting to be disenchanted by the lack of information. I did talk to my guide breifly on Sat. and he did not have any depth of knowledge, sounded like it was still comming out. Still waiting....

[crisi]

Just wait until a conceirge room gets rented on eBay.

[Starr W.]

Again, I don't see anyone questioning the fairness of this move. My question is whether it is a wise move.

I don't anticipate many problems for perhaps the first couple of years. Low member count. Heck, when they open reservations (when is that again? April? May? June?), people will be able to book their entire stay in one call for dates well into 2008.

But once there are 30,000+ AKV owners and 5 rooms...watch out. Concierge doesn't interest me but I suspect I'll be on the sidelines doing one of these: :lmao:

We've all heard how an entire morning's worth of CRT reservations can be completely gone in 10 minutes. Now here we're talking about 5 rooms. I can just see the posts now:

"I'm so upset. I got someone to pick up the phone at 8:59 but the rep was was soooo sloooow. By the time he/she FINALLY managed to pull up the inventory on the computer, all of the concierge rooms were gone. Now I either have to cancel my concierge room for 12/30 or spend New Year's Eve switching resorts."

Fair? Absolutely. No tears here.

Satisfying? Well-planned? Good for the program? :sad2:

And does anyone really believe that DVC will educate new or prospective members as to what it will take to actually get a concierge room? We're not talking about getting BWV at 7 months here (which is very doable.) We're talking about the need to be on the phone 11 mos out, day-by-day at 8:55am to have any chance of getting a room. (BTW, that time is great for those of us in the eastern time zone--not so great for those in the west and abroad. In that sense, I think there is actually room to argue that the system is NOT "fair" to everyone.)

I HOPE they go to some sort of lottery system or come up with another way for members to buy concierge services. Yes, I see the point that something is better than nothing, but I'm also left thinking "be careful what you wish for..."

Where can I get my seat for this? Should be a good show. popcorn::

[greenban]

This is the issue that I've wondered about. How could any member hope to get more than a day or two of their stay? Competition will be especially fierce for the nights associated with the sunrise safari.

I have visions of people checking in and checking out of Concierge villas every other day -- inconvenient for members and will cause additional housekeeping expenses if those villas end up getting a full cleaning every day due to members ending up with fragmented stays.

So I'm wondering if they will have a lottery for those villas. For those who were members at the time, how did the lottery system for holiday stays work?


This is where trusting your vacation needs to an Owner who is a member of the PDRA is vital. We now have first dibs at Concierge Level Rooms, and I used my source Deep-Croaker to pre-book our Christmas stay in a 2 Bedroom club level.

Look for the PDRA logo for all of your rental needs.

-Tony

And yes, this is one of my posts you should *NOT* believe!

This will be very interesting. Either bringing back the lottery, or being able to book 11 Months + 10 days like making ADRs 180+10......

[bzzelady]

Starr W,

You bring the popcorn...and I'll bring the drinks (of course, the drinks won't be able to have straws because they would be dangerous to the animals!).
:laughing: :laughing: :laughing:

[Starr W.]

Starr W,

You bring the popcorn...and I'll bring the drinks (of course, the drinks won't be able to have straws because they would be dangerous to the animals!).
:laughing: :laughing: :laughing:


You have a deal, I think this is going to be even better than some of the "to rent or not to rent point" threads.

[lisareniff]

I HOPE they go to some sort of lottery system or come up with another way for members to buy concierge services. Yes, I see the point that something is better than nothing, but I'm also left thinking "be careful what you wish for..."

I agree IF there are only 5-10 villas that can have the concierge service it will be inadequate for the demand and will be a mess. I am somewhat OK with that but it would be sooo much better if the concierge service was allowed to be purchased by the other rooms as an addon fee. Actually, if the rooms on the 6th floor are the concierge rooms, people might not be fighting as much as you think to get those. Six are pool view and the other nine look toward the Sunset savannah with an over hang roof (reportly not the greatest view). Most previous AKL concierge guests wanted the 5th floor rooms.

What bothers me more, actually, is the thought that the 6th floor lounge, a DVC space, may be used mostly by AKL concierge guests not DVC members. Now I say thought because at present I have no real information as to what is happening, just a lot of putting pieces together and guessing. The previously the AKL concierge service/lounge included 19 suites and 55 rooms, which equals about the equivalent of 107 rooms. AKV is planning on having 15??:confused3

[LisaS]

Lisa, Is this still conjecture or has this been been verified by anyone? I might have missed some posts. I'm starting to be disenchanted by the lack of information. I did talk to my guide breifly on Sat. and he did not have any depth of knowledge, sounded like it was still comming out. Still waiting....I'm not sure which parts you are asking about but there is some info related to concierge accommodations, expenses and the lounge in one of the documents on the Orange Country website, the "Master Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions".

Definitions of those terms ("Concierge Accommodations", etc.) can be found on page 3. Page 11, section 3.5 discusses the use of the lounge by hotel guests. On page 23, section 7.2 discusses AKL reimbursing AKV for use of the lounge by AKL guests.

Unfortunately these documents consist of scanned documents so you cannot copy and paste them as text.

The info about "Concierge Accommodations" being limited to the 6th floor villas is something I read here on the DISboards. I'm hoping Suzanne will jump in here because she has a much better grasp on what is spelled out in these documents than I do.

[lisareniff]

Oh, you didn't need to go to all that work. I was right with you trying to put the pieces together and wondered if I missed a piece.

[SoCalKDG]

I'm surprised that they even offered concierge. The cost difference between standard deluxe rooms and concierge rooms is never less than $100, sometimes up to $200. At 14 points for a studio room you are getting concierge for free, thus the best deal of any DVC currently on the market. I'm surprised they didn't offer these rooms starting at 20+ points for a studio.

[LisaS]

Oh, you didn't need to go to all that work. I was right with you trying to put the pieces together and wondered if I missed a piece.Not a problem. I just wish we had something other than these scanned documents. Disney should have released more details about AKV by now -- floor plans, details on concierge level, artist's renderings of the villa interiors, a description of the pool and the restaurant. They've been selling points for nearly a week now!

[SuzanneSLO]

I'm not sure which parts you are asking about but there is some info related to concierge accommodations, expenses and the lounge in one of the documents on the Orange Country website, the "Master Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions".

Definitions of those terms ("Concierge Accommodations", etc.) can be found on page 3. Page 11, section 3.5 discusses the use of the lounge by hotel guests. On page 23, section 7.2 discusses AKL reimbursing AKV for use of the lounge by AKL guests.

Unfortunately these documents consist of scanned documents so you cannot copy and paste them as text.

The info about "Concierge Accommodations" being limited to the 6th floor villas is something I read here on the DISboards. I'm hoping Suzanne will jump in here because she has a much better grasp on what is spelled out in these documents than I do.

Lisa has it right: DVC will operate the conceirge lounge and then be reimbursed for use of that lounge by AKL guests staying in conceirge accomodations on the 2nd , 3rd and 4th floors. The number of AKL concierge rooms will be based on max concierge lounge occupancy minus max DVC concierge room occupancy.

Where I think the uncertianty continues to lie is in the # of DVC concierge rooms. The 6th floor (which has to have concierge lounge access) has 15 deluxe rooms, which will probably be converted to 5 2BR or 10 1BR + 1S or some comobination. What I think is unkown is whether some of the rooms on the 5th floor which have enjoyed concierge lounge access will continue to do so as they morph into DVC units.

I understand that there are 55 concierge rooms and 19 suites, so with an average occupancy of 5 per room (or suite), the lounge should have an approximate capacity of 370.

The 6th floor rooms will have an occupancy of 45 (5 rooms x 9), leaving 325 hotel guests to enjoy the concierge lounge. It is this staggering difference between use of th e lounge by DVC v. AKL that seems like poor planning to me. DVC seems to be going out of its way to create difficulties for itself if it does not convert some 5th floor rooms to concierge.

DVC may be under-estimating demand for DVC Club rooms. With pricing difference equal in many cases to less than a point per night per occupant, the product seems to be underpriced even for a marginal market. In contrast, at AKL, the pricing difference is probably at least $20 per night per occupant and they still book concierge level rooms.

While DVC does have some members who will be most attracted to the AKV value units even if the view was of the dung heap ("look, honey, that's some of our founder's memorial zebra dung"), I would think that the many (if not most) DVC members are in the camp of affordable quality: willing to pay more for perceived additional value.

I think DVC could add more than 5 concierge rooms without crowding the lounge and still "share nicely" with the AKL. JMO

-- Suzanne

[Maistre Gracey]

You know, now that I'm thinking about it, how hard would it be to increase the number of club level rooms? It seems like a very easy stroke of the pen. I mean, there is no difference in the rooms, just the services offered. They could just increase the points required for a regular room and turn those into cash to pay for it, sort of like the Disney Collection. :smokin:

MG
Alright, this is a new one. I'm "bumping" my post from earlier in this thread. I would really for the folks here to comment on this and see if it's viable. :smokin:

MG

[eyeheartgoofy]

While DVC does have some members who will be most attracted to the AKV value units even if the view was of the dung heap ("look, honey, that's some of our founder's memorial zebra dung"), I would think that the many (if not most) DVC members are in the camp of affordable quality: willing to pay more for perceived additional value.


-- Suzanne

Well, I certainly hope your opinion is correct. I am keeping my fingers crossed that there are only a few of us bottom dwellers willing to settle for the dung heap view. Value room - here I come!!!

[50 years Too!]

Don't you all think they are limiting it because of the safari?
I know we don't have info, but I think these probably will be less desirable views than the SV category. Maybe that is why the point difference is so small?
I plan to book two 2 bedroom villas for 5 nights December 2009. (I know, pathetic how I plan so far in advance). Before anyone thinks I'm trying to rent, I am planning a reunion for my brother and sister, myself, and our kids. I plan to book SV Sun thru Wed then have us move to Concierge for the one night on Thursday so that we can do the Safari. I have stayed concierge too many times where I didn't even make it to the lounge. Safari is the only draw for me.
Deb

[jemiaule]

Has anyone considered that perhaps they will also make a concierge level in the new building? I have NO information that they are doing this but one would hope that they would be.

[Maistre Gracey]

Has anyone considered that perhaps they will also make a concierge level in the new building? I have NO information that they are doing this but one would hope that they would be.
A very good point indeed. This is a good possibility, especially since DVC is running the whole concierge show at AKV and AKL. :smokin:

MG

[tjkraz]

I do have a little bit more information to add. I skimmed the 100+ page Declaration of Condominium posted on the Orange County Comptroller website. The document makes it clear that the Concierge Lounge is being shared between DVC and WDWHRC (can't remember exactly what that stands for--Walt Disney World Hospitality...something--it's the entity that operates the Lodge.)

One passage in the document reads as follows:

"...upon WDWHRC's election to terminate its easement rights, the Association shall be entitled to (i) allow additional Owners (in addition to the Owners staying in the Concierge Units) to use the Concierge Lounge upon payment of a fee determined by the Association in its discretion."

The way I read that, DVC is prohibited from allowing any guests to use the lounge other than those in the Concierge class UNLESS WDWHRC withdraws its use of the lounge. If WDWHRC ceases to use the lounge, only then could DVC permit other owners to use the lounge at whatever fees it might determine.

I'd say this is a sign that WDWHRC is very interested in protecting the quality of the concierge experience for its cash guests. They don't want DVC flooding the lounge, which could result in less-than-satisfactory experience from people paying premium nightly rates for concierge access.

Also noteworthy is the fact that "Concierge Lounge" is singular throughout the document. Terms such as "units", "pools", "whirlpools", etc. are frequently used to indicate more than one will exist on property. That does not appear to be the case with the lounge.

[StacyPop]

[QUOTE=tjkraz;16853427]Multiple sources have confirmed that there will be exactly five units in the AKV Concierge category. All are lockoff Two Bedrooms, making for a maximum of 10 rooms.

If this is true, then why are there studio and 1 bedroom point values listed at the club level on the point chart?????

[tomandrobin]

[QUOTE=tjkraz;16853427]Multiple sources have confirmed that there will be exactly five units in the AKV Concierge category. All are lockoff Two Bedrooms, making for a maximum of 10 rooms.

If this is true, then why are there studio and 1 bedroom point values listed at the club level on the point chart?????

When you break a 2 bedroom l/0 unit in half you are left with a studio and a one bedroom unit. :teacher:
:surfweb:

[MickeyCrazed]

[quote=tjkraz;16853427]Multiple sources have confirmed that there will be exactly five units in the AKV Concierge category. All are lockoff Two Bedrooms, making for a maximum of 10 rooms.

If this is true, then why are there studio and 1 bedroom point values listed at the club level on the point chart?????

Because a two-bedroom lockoff can become a one bedroom and a separate studio.

[Granny]

Originally Posted by Maistre Gracey
You know, now that I'm thinking about it, how hard would it be to increase the number of club level rooms? It seems like a very easy stroke of the pen. I mean, there is no difference in the rooms, just the services offered. They could just increase the points required for a regular room and turn those into cash to pay for it, sort of like the Disney Collection.
Alright, this is a new one. I'm "bumping" my post from earlier in this thread. I would really for the folks here to comment on this and see if it's viable. :smokin:

MG
Maistre G....I think this post summarizes some comments I've seen on this thread about increasing the number of club room levels.

I'd say this is a sign that WDWHRC is very interested in protecting the quality of the concierge experience for its cash guests. They don't want DVC flooding the lounge, which could result in less-than-satisfactory experience from people paying premium nightly rates for concierge access.

I haven't read the entire thread, but I tend to agree that this will be a hot topic for years to come if it remains as we now understand it.popcorn::

[mydogdrew]

Not an ideal number of units but I think you might be overstating the importance of this. I would suggest that these rooms would often be booked for shorter stays and clearly the views are not ideal. 2 BR's will be hard to come by so I think it will be closer to ten rooms in reality. Yes, you will likely have to own there to get one and I am pleased to see that DVC is rewarding owners of AKV will a real booking advantage over non-owners. Something we have not seen since BCV (e.g. dedicated 2BR 2Q).

[Bytor01]

Is that 5 rooms total or just 5 rooms in the AKV set up in the main building which is slated to open up in the fall? Will there be more once the new building opens up in '09?

Tim

[tomandrobin]

Not an ideal number of units but I think you might be overstating the importance of this. I would suggest that these rooms would often be booked for shorter stays and clearly the views are not ideal. 2 BR's will be hard to come by so I think it will be closer to ten rooms in reality. Yes, you will likely have to own there to get one and I am pleased to see that DVC is rewarding owners of AKV will a real booking advantage over non-owners. Something we have not seen since BCV (e.g. dedicated 2BR 2Q).

Um, SSR has Dedicated 2 bedroom and grand villas! BCV does not have any Grand Villas. So I think there is advantages at SSR for home booking.

[Maistre Gracey]

Yes, you will likely have to own there to get one and I am pleased to see that DVC is rewarding owners of AKV will a real booking advantage over non-owners. Something we have not seen since BCV (e.g. dedicated 2BR 2Q).
Another example is the guaranteed Boardwalk View for BWV owners. I think that was implemented after BCV.

Of course, they have it real good, as their premium view doesn't cost additional points! ;)

MG

[Sammie]

How many "club" rooms did the hotel give up for DVC? Each two bedroom DVC room takes the place of three hotel rooms. DVC room occupancy is 8, the hotel rooms is 12. So I am not really sure about DVC over whelming the lounge.

It is not unusual in a 2 bedroom DVC to have at least 4 adults. In a standard room the norm is 2 adults, so yes DVC will contribute more adults to the lounge and more food consumed.

[Maistre Gracey]

It is not unusual in a 2 bedroom DVC to have at least 4 adults. In a standard room the norm is 2 adults, so yes DVC will contribute more adults to the lounge and more food consumed.
I'm looking at that differently. If a 2br equals 3 hotel rooms, than a 2br would take the place of 6 adults using your guidelines. :smokin:

MG

[tomandrobin]

I'm looking at that differently. If a 2br equals 3 hotel rooms, than a 2br would take the place of 6 adults using your guidelines. :smokin:

MG

Yeah...What you said!

[mydogdrew]

Um, SSR has Dedicated 2 bedroom and grand villas! BCV does not have any Grand Villas. So I think there is advantages at SSR for home booking.

If you can get a dedicated 2 BR at SSR as a guarantee then I guess I stand corrected. Not sure you can though. Anyway, doesn't matter - I can get these rooms at 7 months anyway so there is no real booking advantage at SSR. Try to get a BCV 2 BR 2Q at 7 months most times of the year or SV at BWV's. The dues advantage at SSR is important but as an owner you have no real booking advantage over non-SSR owners at 7 months and I'm glad to see this issue back in play at AKL.

[tomandrobin]

If you can get a dedicated 2 BR at SSR as a guarantee then I guess I stand corrected. Not sure you can though. Anyway, doesn't matter - I can get these rooms at 7 months anyway so there is no real booking advantage at SSR. Try to get a BCV 2 BR 2Q at 7 months most times of the year or SV at BWV's. The dues advantage at SSR is important but as an owner you have no real booking advantage over non-SSR owners at 7 months and I'm glad to see this issue back in play at AKL.

You can reserve them at 11 months, guaranteed.

Don't give me that typical BVC condescending attitude!

Let me know how booking a Grand Villa works at 11 months for you........oops that's right, there are none!

[SharonLowe]

I agree IF there are only 5-10 villas that can have the concierge service it will be inadequate for the demand and will be a mess. I am somewhat OK with that but it would be sooo much better if the concierge service was allowed to be purchased by the other rooms as an addon fee. Actually, if the rooms on the 6th floor are the concierge rooms, people might not be fighting as much as you think to get those. Six are pool view and the other nine look toward the Sunset savannah with an over hang roof (reportly not the greatest view). Most previous AKL concierge guests wanted the 5th floor rooms.

What bothers me more, actually, is the thought that the 6th floor lounge, a DVC space, may be used mostly by AKL concierge guests not DVC members. Now I say thought because at present I have no real information as to what is happening, just a lot of putting pieces together and guessing. The previously the AKL concierge service/lounge included 19 suites and 55 rooms, which equals about the equivalent of 107 rooms. AKV is planning on having 15??:confused3

As a long time fan of AKL, especially its CL, but not a DVC member, I have to say it is very interesting to read the DVC thread on this and compare it to the Resort Board threads on our wonderful AKL CL. The 6th floor lounge is CL's space and it is being taken over by DVC - we long-time AKL CL'ers are terribly upset about it. The AKL CL and IPO staff are the absolute best in all of WDW and we all sure hope the service doesn't suffer due to its change in management to DVC. We were devastated to learn that our access is being limited and our room choices downgraded to "standard" rooms because of DVC. CL access has always been limited and it is a "lottery" now in many ways. You guys just have to join the rest of us who want CL access and have to book it far in advance to get it. As for those who only want it to do the Safari, join the other non-DVC owners who want the same thing and think the safari should be open to anyone staying at AKL.

[Maistre Gracey]

As a long time fan of AKL, especially its CL, but not a DVC member, I have to say it is very interesting to read the DVC thread on this and compare it to the Resort Board threads on our wonderful AKL CL. The 6th floor lounge is CL's space and it is being taken over by DVC - we long-time AKL CL'ers are terribly upset about it. The AKL CL and IPO staff are the absolute best in all of WDW and we all sure hope the service doesn't suffer due to its change in management to DVC. We were devastated to learn that our access is being limited and our room choices downgraded to "standard" rooms because of DVC. CL access has always been limited and it is a "lottery" now in many ways. You guys just have to join the rest of us who want CL access and have to book it far in advance to get it. As for those who only want it to do the Safari, join the other non-DVC owners who want the same thing and think the safari should be open to anyone staying at AKL.
You make it sound as though it's our fault that CL is changing hands. Perhaps there was just too little demand from the hotel renters, and this is whats needed.

DVC Members who own points at AKV can start booking 11 months prior to check out, so the booking far in advance thing is limited, and set in stone. Everyone here who wants club level room will be on the horn the morning of the 11 month booking window. :smokin:

MG

[SharonLowe]

You make it sound as though it's our fault that CL is changing hands. Perhaps there was just too little demand from the hotel renters, and this is whats needed.

DVC Members who own points at AKV can start booking 11 months prior to check out, so the booking far in advance thing is limited, and set in stone. Everyone here who wants club level room will be on the horn the morning of the 11 month booking window. :smokin:

MG

No, my point is that it is the CL lounge, not the DVC lounge - if it was the latter, all DVC members would be allowed to use it. And, yes, I know it is a dollars thing - WDW wouldn't do it if it didn't think it would make more money for the company. You all are likely underestimating the number of AKV CL rooms - they are converting those rooms on the 5th floor too, many of which were AKL CL rooms. I'm guessing that what this does for WDW is get more people to stay there at non-peak times plus of course, it gets lots of money up front. Look at how many people on these boards jumped in to buy a ton of points the very first day they could without even knowing all the details yet.


As for the 11 month window, it is your choice to buy the points so you have to accept that limitation. We have stayed in villas before but decided we preferred the greater flexibility of renting whenever and wherever we choose. I expect there will be AKV villas for non-members to rent too.

[Sammie]

I'm looking at that differently. If a 2br equals 3 hotel rooms, than a 2br would take the place of 6 adults using your guidelines. :smokin:

MG

How many concierge rooms are being taken out to make the 5 two bedroom units for DVC? Is it 15?

[jemiaule]

.

[Maistre Gracey]

No, my point is that it is the CL lounge, not the DVC lounge - if it was the latter, all DVC members would be allowed to use it. And, yes, I know it is a dollars thing - WDW wouldn't do it if it didn't think it would make more money for the company. You all are likely underestimating the number of AKV CL rooms - they are converting those rooms on the 5th floor too, many of which were AKL CL rooms. I'm guessing that what this does for WDW is get more people to stay there at non-peak times plus of course, it gets lots of money up front. Look at how many people on these boards jumped in to buy a ton of points the very first day they could without even knowing all the details yet.


As for the 11 month window, it is your choice to buy the points so you have to accept that limitation. We have stayed in villas before but decided we preferred the greater flexibility of renting whenever and wherever we choose. I expect there will be AKV villas for non-members to rent too.
Yes, we are already well aware of the limitations and decided to purchase. I'm not complaining, but it seems as though you are not happy.

As far as knowing all the details, well here's what we did know before we bought:

-- We have stayed at AKL club level twice in the past, and eat at Jiko every trip. Because of this we know the resort, and theme pretty well.

-- We also know the DVC system pretty well. We know they do just about everything top notch, as do all components of the Walt Disney Company.

Putting those two things together, we can make a highly educated guess that purchasing at AKV is a good choice for us.
No, we don't know the exact room layout, or where the walkway will be. We are also uncertain of exactly how many rooms of which type there will be.
With that said, to suggest that we made a impullsive choice to purchase, is incorrect.

I'm sorry if DVC somehow impedes upon your resort, and your concierge lounge. :smokin:

MG

[Maistre Gracey]

How many concierge rooms are being taken out to make the 5 two bedroom units for DVC? Is it 15?
I'm really not sure. I'm just going by the "One 2br = three hotel room" formula. :smokin:

MG

[jemiaule]

MG - you may want to go read this thread to get some background:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1349889

[LisaS]

As a long time fan of AKL, especially its CL, but not a DVC member, I have to say it is very interesting to read the DVC thread on this and compare it to the Resort Board threads on our wonderful AKL CL. The 6th floor lounge is CL's space and it is being taken over by DVC - we long-time AKL CL'ers are terribly upset about it. The AKL CL and IPO staff are the absolute best in all of WDW and we all sure hope the service doesn't suffer due to its change in management to DVC. We were devastated to learn that our access is being limited and our room choices downgraded to "standard" rooms because of DVC. CL access has always been limited and it is a "lottery" now in many ways. You guys just have to join the rest of us who want CL access and have to book it far in advance to get it. As for those who only want it to do the Safari, join the other non-DVC owners who want the same thing and think the safari should be open to anyone staying at AKL.It is interesting to hear from someone on the other side of this issue. As happy as we are that DVC members will have access to concierge level for the first time, it means loyal AKL CL fans are losing the convience of having a room close to the lounge, giving up the larger rooms at AKL, and competing for fewer CL rooms. I can certainly understand why you would be disappointed over these changes.

From what we've heard so far, there won't be many concierge spaces reserved for DVC members. It sounds like the majority of them will still go to hotel guests so you will have an easier time booking AKL CL than we will I think.

[Maistre Gracey]

MG - you may want to go read this thread to get some background:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1349889
Nice.

Thanx for the link... :smokin:

MG

[mydogdrew]

You can reserve them at 11 months, guaranteed.

Don't give me that typical BVC condescending attitude!

Let me know how booking a Grand Villa works at 11 months for you........oops that's right, there are none!

Not that I want any but I can book any room at SSR at 7 months. You are making my point...and I don't own BCV it was just an example. Any resort other than SSR has a booking advantage for it's owners. I guess you should have researched this a bit more before your purchase.

[Maistre Gracey]

Not that I want any but I can book any room at SSR at 7 months. You are making my point...and I don't own BCV it was just an example. Any resort other than SSR has a booking advantage for it's owners. I guess you should have researched this a bit more before your purchase.

Not trying to speak for tomandrobin, but I think one point they are making is that SSR has grand villas. The 11 month window at SSR will likely be needed to book a GV. :smokin:

MG

[tomandrobin]

Not that I want any but I can book any room at SSR at 7 months. You are making my point...and I don't own BCV it was just an example. Any resort other than SSR has a booking advantage for it's owners. I guess you should have researched this a bit more before your purchase.

I love when I read ignorance of others, especially when they try to pass off thier opinion as facts. SSR is large, but to state that all rooms types are always available at the 7 month mark is rediculous. You are pulling that out of your........thin air. When is the last time you called and asked about room availability at SSR. Probably never, but that's just a guess on my part. I know what amenities and features each resort has and does not have. Apparently more then you, since you were not aware of the dedicated 2 bedroom at SSR. What about the Grand Villa situation. Three replies to my posts, but you skip over that aspect.

Humor me and list what you apparently feel is the home booking advantage at each resort, that SSR does not have.

And reread my last post, I didn't write that you owned at BCV. Just had the attitude, which you do!

[Bytor01]

And reread my last post, I didn't write that you owned at BCV. Just had the attitude, which you do!


Why player hate BCV owners...is it because you can never get a room there?:rotfl2: Only kidding, c'mon DVC owners unite!!!

Tim

[keys2kingdom]

we long-time AKL CL'ers are terribly upset about it.

Apparently not so much...there are all of five (including you) non DVC people on that thread. In the scope of things that's not very many upset people.

[Maistre Gracey]

Apparently not so much...there are all of five (including you) non DVC people on that thread. In the scope of things that's not very many upset people.
And I only see one or two people in that thread that are "terribly upset" about it. :smokin:

MG

[keys2kingdom]

And I only see one or two people in that thread that are "terribly upset" about it. :smokin:

MG


And only 1 upset enough to compare us to animals! :lmao:

[Maistre Gracey]

And only 1 upset enough to compare us to animals! :lmao::rotfl2: :rotfl2:

MG

[Sammie]

And only 1 upset enough to compare us to animals! :lmao:

You know this is one arguement I have no desire to really get into, as I have no desire to stay at AKL.

But I can see both sides. Those that are DVC and think it is no big deal, have you stayed at AKL concierge before? If not, not sure you can state whether or not it will have an adverse affect as you will have nothing to compare with.

Personally even though I enjoy my DVC I think DVC when it was added to BC and WL brought some negatives to a resort we had enjoyed many times prior to DVC. Again unless you were frequent guests at BC and WL prior to DVC, not sure you would understand.

As to the animal reply if you go back and read the entire thread, a DVC member stated that many DVC members are territorial and hence the comment about animals, as many animals are territorial also.

Mainly time will tell if DVC can provide the same quality experience at the AKL concierge as it has in the past when Disney resorts had it.

[FriendsOfEeyore]

I love when I read ignorance of others, especially when they try to pass off thier opinion as facts. SSR is large, but to state that all rooms types are always available at the 7 month mark is rediculous. You are pulling that out of your........thin air. When is the last time you called and asked about room availability at SSR. Probably never, but that's just a guess on my part. I know what amenities and features each resort has and does not have. Apparently more then you, since you were not aware of the dedicated 2 bedroom at SSR. What about the Grand Villa situation. Three replies to my posts, but you skip over that aspect.

Humor me and list what you apparently feel is the home booking advantage at each resort, that SSR does not have.

And reread my last post, I didn't write that you owned at BCV. Just had the attitude, which you do!

popcorn:: I love a good BCV v. SSR debate, but back to the Topic at hand!

[keys2kingdom]

You know this is one arguement I have no desire to really get into, as I have no desire to stay at AKL.

But I can see both sides. Those that are DVC and think it is no big deal, have you stayed at AKL concierge before? If not, not sure you can state whether or not it will have an adverse affect as you will have nothing to compare with.

Personally even though I enjoy my DVC I think DVC when it was added to BC and WL brought some negatives to a resort we had enjoyed many times prior to DVC. Again unless you were frequent guests at BC and WL prior to DVC, not sure you would understand.

As to the animal reply if you go back and read the entire thread, a DVC member stated that many DVC members are territorial and hence the comment about animals, as many animals are territorial also.

Mainly time will tell if DVC can provide the same quality experience at the AKL concierge as it has in the past when Disney resorts had it.

Oh it could very well have an adverse affect and it might be a very big deal but, I was simply commenting on the fact that there didn't seem to be too many upset people in that thread. That poster acted like there were legions of AKL CL people up in arms over there and then when I went to the thread there were 5.

As a frequent BC guest over the years I was less than thrilled at the thought of DVC going in there. I can remember being initially upset at the crowding in the lobby and the relocation of the bus stop among other things however, people need to get over their snobishness and move with the times, DVC is hot and like it or not (and I do like it) it's here to stay. That's why I decided to get on board before I got runover! Get over it or become bitter. I got over it and joined DVC. BC/BCV is still a lovely resort any way you slice it, as are all the others. DVC going in somewhere is not the ruination of the place.

Things change, AKL was not being utilized to its potential so it bit the bullet and did what it needed to do to boost occupancy and make more money.

I read the entire thread and the animal comment, although preceeded by spiceycat's, still had a snarky tone as did the earlier one about 'crying in their soup'. Looks like she's trying to :stir: .

[Beca]

Okay, JMHO....but, I don't see the "overcrowding" of the lounge by DVC as a problem, especially when you consider they are putting in 5 2-bdrm lockoffs. I tend to think that when you have a full kitchen, you will be less likely to "raid" the lounge. Maybe it's just my family, but when we pay for a 1 bdrm, we really do use our kitchen a lot.

I first assumed that the concierge level rooms would ALL be studios, as those are the people for whom the CL lounge would be a "big benefit". Maybe that is why DVC decided NOT to make them all studios....they were hoping many people would NOT use it.

I also think the REAL asset to CL in this case is the safari. I wonder if AKL will increase the number of days the safari goes? If so, I could see a lot of people being much happier if they only get one or two nights in AKV CL. Otherwise, the nights touching that safari will be INSANE to get.

I am glad to see DVC building a DVC resort with so many "options" though....it does make the resort much more desirable for many more people.

[Beca]

Um, SSR has Dedicated 2 bedroom and grand villas! BCV does not have any Grand Villas. So I think there is advantages at SSR for home booking.

Not trying to start anything, but everytime I have booked a 2 brdm at BCV, the CM has asked if I want to book a dedicated or a lock-off. I thought the option was available at every resort that has dedicated 2 bdrms.

Am I missing something?

[tomandrobin]

Not trying to start anything, but everytime I have booked a 2 brdm at BCV, the CM has asked if I want to book a dedicated or a lock-off. I thought the option was available at every resort that has dedicated 2 bdrms.

Am I missing something?

You can request a 2 bedroom dedicated room, at any resort where they are available.

[tomandrobin]

popcorn:: I love a good BCV v. SSR debate, but back to the Topic at hand!

Actually wasn't trying to start a debate. I just don't like the back handed remarks/put downs that are based on opinion and not facts.

I am a DVC fan of all the resorts. I think they all have qualities that are desirable and some that are not. You can check my past post and see that overall I am positive about all of them.

I am excited about the new resort and can't wait to 2009 to try it out! We may stay at the lodge portion first, but we will see how everything plays out.

[crisi]

Not trying to start anything, but everytime I have booked a 2 brdm at BCV, the CM has asked if I want to book a dedicated or a lock-off. I thought the option was available at every resort that has dedicated 2 bdrms.

Am I missing something?

I suspect the point was that if you want a Grand Villa, you should own at a Grand Villa resort - which isn't BCV or VWL - giving SSR something that has limited availability at seven months and and the owners an advantage for something prior to 2042

[tomandrobin]

I suspect the point was that if you want a Grand Villa, you should own at a Grand Villa resort - which isn't BCV or VWL - giving SSR something that has limited availability at seven months and and the owners an advantage for something prior to 2042

It started with a comment that AKV was the first resort since BCV to have a home booking advantage, because of the ded 2 bedroom at BCV. I just brought up the fact that SSR also had the DED 2 bedroom, plus GVs that comes into play for home booking advantage at SSR.

I was trying to inform or remind him of the facts. Will there be availibilty at 7 months at SSR, yes. But not necessarily all of the unit types.

[mamaprincess]

popcorn:: I love a good BCV v. SSR debate, but back to the Topic at hand!
Don't hog the popcorn!popcorn:: Any debate on the Dis is quality entertainment and very popcorn worthy!

[greenban]

Not trying to start anything, but everytime I have booked a 2 brdm at BCV, the CM has asked if I want to book a dedicated or a lock-off. I thought the option was available at every resort that has dedicated 2 bdrms.

Am I missing something?

Oh Beca!

We know the BCV is special to you, and that they treat you special when you call.

My last call to MS went something like this.....

"TY for calling DVC MS, How May I help you?"

"I'd like.........."

"Oh hi Tony, rumor is that you have to sell your points?"

"What?"

"Member #, Name, last 4 of SS for security purposes, Blood Type, PayPal password."

"I'd like....."

"We only have the dumpster view room at VWL available."

"I haven't given you my request yet."

"I'm sorry, that room has just been taken by another member. Thanks for calling member services and have a magical day!"

<click>

-Tony

[greenban]

Actually wasn't trying to start a debate. I just don't like the back handed remarks/put downs that are based on opinion and not facts. [/b]...

I am a DVC fan of all the resorts. I think they all have qualities that are desirable and some that are not. You can check my past post and see that overall I am positive about all of them.

I am excited about the new resort and can't wait to 2009 to try it out! We may stay at the lodge portion first, but we will see how everything plays out.

Dear TAR:

Just checking, are you okay with back handed remarks/put downs that are factual? ;)

Ya'all know, it is the threads like this where I really miss Daitcher and BoatBoatBoat, 3 of SSR's greatest fans!!!

-Tony

P.S. The fever has broken, and while I feel miserable, my warpedness is slowly returning.....

[crisi]

It started with a comment that AKV was the first resort since BCV to have a home booking advantage, because of the ded 2 bedroom at BCV. I just brought up the fact that SSR also had the DED 2 bedroom, plus GVs that comes into play for home booking advantage at SSR.

I was trying to inform or remind him of the facts. Will there be availibilty at 7 months at SSR, yes. But not necessarily all of the unit types.


Has anyone had any issues booking the dedicated 2 bedrooms - or even the GVs - at SSR if they call at seven months? I know that the 2Q dedicateds at BCVs are probably the hardest thing to book without being an owner at the resort - there are so few of them. Fortunately, for most people the 2Q in the 2nd bedroom is a "nice to have" not something that makes or breaks a vacation - the ability to get one probably isn't the driving factor in most people's BCV purchase decision (unlike those huge cheap OKW Grand Villas or the standard views at BWVs - that availablility does seem to drive purchase decisions).

[tjkraz]

I doubt anyone can speak authoritatively regarding booking patterns at SSR to date. The resort hasn't even been open for 3 years yet and is constantly adding new owners who will contribute to the trends.

But if I'm not mistaken, this line of discussion began with the suggestion that having only 5 concierge units in AKV is a GOOD thing because of its impact on non-owners at the resort. I have to say that's an amazingly narrow-minded view of the situation.

I wonder how many BCV owners would love to see more of the two queen rooms at their Home and how many OKW owners would be grateful for additional Grand Villas.

Limited availability of certain room classes hurts everyone--probably those who own at the resort most of all because they have greatest access to the resort's inventory. To imply that limiting certain room classes is a good thing given its secondary "benefit" of punishing non-owners is just juvenile.

Sorry, but I just don't see many people jumping onto the "five Concerige units is a good thing because non-owners can't get it" bandwagon. The number of disgruntled AKV owners will far outpace the non-owners, IMO.

[tomandrobin]

I doubt anyone can speak authoritatively regarding booking patterns at SSR to date. The resort hasn't even been open for 3 years yet and is constantly adding new owners who will contribute to the trends.

But if I'm not mistaken, this line of discussion began with the suggestion that having only 5 concierge units in AKV is a GOOD thing because of its impact on non-owners at the resort. I have to say that's an amazingly narrow-minded view of the situation.

I wonder how many BCV owners would love to see more of the two queen rooms at their Home and how many OKW owners would be grateful for additional Grand Villas.

Limited availability of certain room classes hurts everyone--probably those who own at the resort most of all because they have greatest access to the resort's inventory. To imply that limiting certain room classes is a good thing given its secondary "benefit" of punishing non-owners is just juvenile.

Sorry, but I just don't see many people jumping onto the "five Concerige units is a good thing because non-owners can't get it" bandwagon. The number of disgruntled AKV owners will far outpace the non-owners, IMO.

I wonder why DVC can't build more studio units with two queens, like at OKW?
A couple units here or there couldn't hurt, could it?

[crisi]

I doubt anyone can speak authoritatively regarding booking patterns at SSR to date. The resort hasn't even been open for 3 years yet and is constantly adding new owners who will contribute to the trends.

But if I'm not mistaken, this line of discussion began with the suggestion that having only 5 concierge units in AKV is a GOOD thing because of its impact on non-owners at the resort. I have to say that's an amazingly narrow-minded view of the situation.

I wonder how many BCV owners would love to see more of the two queen rooms at their Home and how many OKW owners would be grateful for additional Grand Villas.

Limited availability of certain room classes hurts everyone--probably those who own at the resort most of all because they have greatest access to the resort's inventory. To imply that limiting certain room classes is a good thing given its secondary "benefit" of punishing non-owners is just juvenile.

Sorry, but I just don't see many people jumping onto the "five Concerige units is a good thing because non-owners can't get it" bandwagon. The number of disgruntled AKV owners will far outpace the non-owners, IMO.

I agree. It works best when DVC has enough supply to meet demand - maybe not so that you can book that conceirge room at three months, but there really shouldn't be much that books up regularly at eleven months. The situation with BWV Standard View rooms over Food and Wine is not desireable - not for owners of the resort or for anyone else.

[jemiaule]

I wonder why DVC can't build more studio units with two queens, like at OKW?
A couple units here or there couldn't hurt, could it?

This would be on my wish list too. To save points when I take just my mom we book a studio. Being a good kid I give mom the bed which leaves me the sofa bed....ew.

I guess since it is called a "studio" is why they have a sofa bed - to give a small "living" space like a studio apartment would have.

[Beca]

Dear TAR:

Just checking, are you okay with back handed remarks/put downs that are factual? ;)

Ya'all know, it is the threads like this where I really miss Daitcher and BoatBoatBoat, 3 of SSR's greatest fans!!!

-Tony

P.S. The fever has broken, and while I feel miserable, my warpedness is slowly returning.....

Oh Tony!!!!

:tiptoe:

Did you have the flu? I've had it for a WEEK!!!! (Who knew the flu would last a week??!!)

Good to see your sense of humor has returned!! Mine is still so slow, when I read your tongue-firmly-in-cheek thread to TAR, I thought you were trying to "start something"....that's when I knew I was probably NOT well enough to be disin' (at least, not well enough to read YOUR posts) ;) There are some days you can run with the big dogs, and some days you REALLY need to sit on the porch. Me, I think I'll be content to sit on my porch today!!!

TAR....thanks, that's what I thought, too. I guess I just missed your point entirely. My brain is NOT working like it normally does (yeah....I'll just blame it on the illness ;) ).

[jemiaule]

Did you have the flu? I've had it for a WEEK!!!! (Who knew the flu would last a week??!!)

:offtopic: I am completely convinced half the population has had this darn flu; I know I have had it for close to a week. Trying to look on thr bright side - at least it has helped my diet since I can't eat much of anything. ;)

[Beca]

:offtopic: I am completely convinced half the population has had this darn flu; I know I have had it for close to a week. Trying to look on thr bright side - at least it has helped my diet since I can't eat much of anything. ;)

I'm sorry you have it, too!! Losing weight IS a nice benefit, though!;)

[tomandrobin]

This would be on my wish list too. To save points when I take just my mom we book a studio. Being a good kid I give mom the bed which leaves me the sofa bed....ew.

I guess since it is called a "studio" is why they have a sofa bed - to give a small "living" space like a studio apartment would have.


We all know that there are studios with 4 or more adults. :crowded: Why not eliminate a few sofa beds and add a second bed. Maybe add a bunk bed in unit or two for families. Maybe 5 or 10 units of each. I'm sure they would be a hit for some families.

[jemiaule]

Has anyone considered that perhaps they will also make a concierge level in the new building? I have NO information that they are doing this but one would hope that they would be.

Yes, I know I look like a dork quoting myself.

Just got off the phone with my guide. There will NOT be a concierge level in the new building. There will only be the 10 concierge rooms in the main lodge.

[lisareniff]

I found this picture of the sunset savanna(h). This would be the same location as the concierge savanna(h) rooms only up a couple floors.

I hope this works... nope but the link is here...
http://www.laughingplace.com/ShowPic.asp?Filename=/files/AKLodge/big/0060-014.jpg&Caption=The+savannah+at+sunset&ID=502390