Bad Mothers' Handbook - Chapter 2 - The DIS Discussion Forums

wilma-bride · 11-16-2009, 01:23 PM

Chapter 2: Giraffes are Boring!

Back in March, when we were able to switch our DVC reservations to Animal Kingdom Villas, there was much merriment in the Alcock and Longstaff households - with the exception of one 6-year old boy….

Daniel is a creature of habit. He knows what he likes and he likes what he knows (goodness knows where he gets that from

)

So, when I broke the news to Daniel on his return home from school that afternoon, the conversation went something like this:

Me: Guess where we’re going to be staying in October
Daniel: Wilderness Lodge?
Me: Nope, Animal Kingdom Villas, isn’t that great?
Daniel: No, I don’t want to stay there. I want to stay at Wilderness Lodge
Me: But at Animal Kingdom Villas, you can see animals from the windows and everything
Daniel: Like lions?
Me: No, but…
Daniel: Elephants?
Me: No, but they have giraffes
Daniel: Giraffes are boring!

Fast forward now to our arrival at Animal Kingdom Villas.

We pulled up in the check-in parking lot opposite the main entrance to Kidani Village and unloaded all the bags and cases. I’d read that the lobby was small, compared to Jambo House, but I had never been to Animal Kingdom Lodge so was not really sure what to expect. To me, it was still fantastic. Not quite as awe-inspiring as the lobby at Wilderness Lodge and I didn’t do the open-mouthed staring thing but it still took my breath away momentarily. If I had to sum it up, I would say that it is beautiful yet understated.

At the check-in desk, we were welcomed home, checked in incredibly efficiently and given our room keys and some family reunion badges (presumably because we’d registered for a Grand Gathering). Nat and John checked in immediately afterwards and we discovered our rooms were fairly near each other. As we walked through the lobby and round to the right towards the lifts, we passed the animal viewing area (one of many) and much ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ followed as the children (and adults) spotted various animals, including zebras, ostriches and buffalo (or was it bison?)

Into the lift and up to the fourth floor, we came first to Nat and John’s room (room 7807).

A standard view studio, it overlooked the entrance to Kidani Village and the bus stop – not entirely unpleasant.

I have to say I was thrilled that we were staying at Kidani village. Animal Kingdom Lodge was my Mum's first choice of hotel on our 1st trip but sadly the budget didn't allow and we ended up offsite - and we always stay at Pop so this was a real treat for me. The room we had was lovely and the view not bad at all! I was slightly miffed when I saw how huge Joh's room was (lol) but of course you get what you pay for (as I was to discover later on in the trip). I never tired of checking out the savannah as we passed the viewing areas!

Then it was down the corridor to our room, 7819, a dedicated two-bedroom standard view. Again, we overlooked the entrance to Kidani, although from a little further away and, if you stretched right out over the balcony and looked over to the right, you could just about make out the swimming pool area.

View to the left...

And to the right...

The room itself was absolutely gorgeous – I do think I am spoiled for life now, I can’t imagine ever going back to a studio even if there was only the two of us. Hmm, I sense the need for an add-on (are you listening Gary?) My favourite thing was the carved headboard on the beds and the massive shower and bathroom area off the master bedroom. I really don’t think the pictures do it justice and, to be honest, if I was to find fault at all, it would be that the rooms sometimes (not always) seemed a little dark, particularly the master bedroom.

After dumping our cases and taking pictures, we all agreed that we could use some sustenance and agreed to head to Downtown Disney to get something to eat. Nat and John went back to their room and we unpacked a little and had a good look round before leaving to call on them a few minutes later.

As we exited the lift on the first floor, we passed the animal viewing area again and I spotted a giraffe. ‘Ooh, a giraffe’ I squealed. ‘Giraffes are boring’ replies Nat and we all crack up laughing.

We decided to catch the bus to Downtown Disney and, for the first time, it struck me why people comment a lot about Animal Kingdom Lodge being too far away from everything. This thought did occur to me quite a lot over the course of the next few days too and I really do understand it now. I wouldn’t say it would prevent me from staying there again but it does detract a little from the enjoyment when you consider it’s actually quite a long journey to get anywhere (with the exception of Animal Kingdom and Blizzard Beach).

At Downtown Disney we alighted the bus at the Market Place. For us, there was only one option for dinner – it had to be Earl of Sandwich. Yummy, toasted sandwiches and lashings of fizzy pop all round!

While we were eating, we discussed the plans for the next day. We had a breakfast ADR at Crystal Palace at 8.15 so decided we really needed to leave no later than 7.30 and agreed we would call for Nat and John on the way down to the bus stop. Leaving Gary, John and the kids still eating, Nat and I headed to Guest Services to exchange our vouchers for 14-day Ultimate tickets. I also managed to get the two 1-day tickets Gary and I had bought (and I had subsequently lost) back in August 07, replaced with two brand new tickets (which I haven’t managed to lose yet).

Back at Earl of Sandwich, we collected the kids and husbands and assured everyone we would have plenty of time for shopping when we returned the next night and over the course of the next 10 days.

All feeling tired now, we trooped back to the bus stop, jumped on the waiting bus (how lucky can you get) and off we went, back to Kidani Village. The entrance looked even prettier at night, lit up by loads of lanterns tucked into crevices around the doorway.

We stopped in at the shop, Johari Treasures, to buy refillable mugs and fill them up, and then we said goodnight and headed off to our respective rooms.

Daniel was more than ready for bed by now and we had no problem getting him to put on his PJs and get into bed. He had decided to share a bed with Sian, and Rea was delighted to have a double bed to herself. We spent a little while unpacking but soon it was done and we were in bed ourselves by 11.

We pretty much did the same thing as Joh. It was at this point I began to seriously consider that I had got way too many clothes as I had trouble fitting them into the wardrobe

That done and we were all ready for bed at this point...and a very comfy bed it was!

Coming soon - Chapter 3: Magic doesn't work on Buses

jackieleanne · 11-16-2009, 01:36 PM

Great stuff girls I really want to stay at AKV/AKL the rooms and place in general look amazing and those beds so comfy.

tony64 · 11-16-2009, 03:25 PM

Nice one joh, You have your work cut out for you, getting the report finished before we go.

SusanEllen · 11-16-2009, 03:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wilma-bride

Back in March, when we were able to switch our DVC reservations to Animal Kingdom Villas, there was much merriment in the Alcock and Longstaff households - with the exception of one 6-year old boy….

Daniel is a creature of habit. He knows what he likes and he likes what he knows (goodness knows where he gets that from

)

So, when I broke the news to Daniel on his return home from school that afternoon, the conversation went something like this:

Me: Guess where we’re going to be staying in October
Daniel: Wilderness Lodge?
Me: Nope, Animal Kingdom Villas, isn’t that great?
Daniel: No, I don’t want to stay there. I want to stay at Wilderness Lodge

And here we have further proof, Joh, that Daniel and I were fated to have a WDW trip together some day. The boy knows a great resort when he finds it. I'll give you that your Animal Kingdom Villa accomodations look lovely, but as Daniel and I know--There's no place like home!

You make a great reporting team, Joh and Natalie. I start smiling just opening each segment.

jjk · 11-16-2009, 03:38 PM

AKL looks amazing

mandymouse · 11-16-2009, 03:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jjk

AKL looks amazing

I agree

Your photos are fab girls

Danwell · 11-16-2009, 03:58 PM

The room looks lovely

jockey · 11-16-2009, 04:15 PM

Great pics I just love AKL, we stayed there in May and it was so amazing the kids loved the animals. I wanted to stay here again in a few weeks but DH picked WL!

natalielongstaff · 11-16-2009, 04:16 PM

To be fair to Daniel those Giraffe's in the pics are doing themselves no favours ! they are just standing about

Tora Millypoops · 11-16-2009, 04:37 PM

Another great tirp report! Keep them coming

wilma-bride · 11-16-2009, 04:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by natalielongstaff

To be fair to Daniel those Giraffe's in the pics are doing themselves no favours ! they are just standing about

See! Boring!!!

eeyorefanuk · 11-16-2009, 05:25 PM

Really enjoying your review .... can I ask I notice you mention grand gathering ... is this where groups of eight or more can book meals/safari etc. If so can you arrange this through disney uk if booked through them rather than US website?? I would love to stay at AK

Chilly · 11-16-2009, 05:28 PM

I can't wait to stay at AKL as I LOVE Giraffe's (sorry Daniel).

I'm ready for chapter 3 now.

darthtatty · 11-16-2009, 06:27 PM

I agree it looks fab, it does seem far away from places.
cant wait for part 3

Muscateer · 11-17-2009, 12:35 AM

Great report and photos.

Loving the banter between the two of you. Reminds me of my get togethers with my best pal.

11-16-2009, 01:23 PM	#1
wilma-bride Would love a diet on Cadbury Flakes Admits she's strange when it comes to eggs Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Calne, Wiltshire Posts: 12,206	Bad Mothers' Handbook - Chapter 2 Chapter 2: Giraffes are Boring! Back in March, when we were able to switch our DVC reservations to Animal Kingdom Villas, there was much merriment in the Alcock and Longstaff households - with the exception of one 6-year old boy…. Daniel is a creature of habit. He knows what he likes and he likes what he knows (goodness knows where he gets that from ) So, when I broke the news to Daniel on his return home from school that afternoon, the conversation went something like this: Me: Guess where we’re going to be staying in October Daniel: Wilderness Lodge? Me: Nope, Animal Kingdom Villas, isn’t that great? Daniel: No, I don’t want to stay there. I want to stay at Wilderness Lodge Me: But at Animal Kingdom Villas, you can see animals from the windows and everything Daniel: Like lions? Me: No, but… Daniel: Elephants? Me: No, but they have giraffes Daniel: Giraffes are boring! Fast forward now to our arrival at Animal Kingdom Villas. We pulled up in the check-in parking lot opposite the main entrance to Kidani Village and unloaded all the bags and cases. I’d read that the lobby was small, compared to Jambo House, but I had never been to Animal Kingdom Lodge so was not really sure what to expect. To me, it was still fantastic. Not quite as awe-inspiring as the lobby at Wilderness Lodge and I didn’t do the open-mouthed staring thing but it still took my breath away momentarily. If I had to sum it up, I would say that it is beautiful yet understated. At the check-in desk, we were welcomed home, checked in incredibly efficiently and given our room keys and some family reunion badges (presumably because we’d registered for a Grand Gathering). Nat and John checked in immediately afterwards and we discovered our rooms were fairly near each other. As we walked through the lobby and round to the right towards the lifts, we passed the animal viewing area (one of many) and much ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ followed as the children (and adults) spotted various animals, including zebras, ostriches and buffalo (or was it bison?) Into the lift and up to the fourth floor, we came first to Nat and John’s room (room 7807). A standard view studio, it overlooked the entrance to Kidani Village and the bus stop – not entirely unpleasant. I have to say I was thrilled that we were staying at Kidani village. Animal Kingdom Lodge was my Mum's first choice of hotel on our 1st trip but sadly the budget didn't allow and we ended up offsite - and we always stay at Pop so this was a real treat for me. The room we had was lovely and the view not bad at all! I was slightly miffed when I saw how huge Joh's room was (lol) but of course you get what you pay for (as I was to discover later on in the trip). I never tired of checking out the savannah as we passed the viewing areas! Then it was down the corridor to our room, 7819, a dedicated two-bedroom standard view. Again, we overlooked the entrance to Kidani, although from a little further away and, if you stretched right out over the balcony and looked over to the right, you could just about make out the swimming pool area. View to the left... And to the right... The room itself was absolutely gorgeous – I do think I am spoiled for life now, I can’t imagine ever going back to a studio even if there was only the two of us. Hmm, I sense the need for an add-on (are you listening Gary?) My favourite thing was the carved headboard on the beds and the massive shower and bathroom area off the master bedroom. I really don’t think the pictures do it justice and, to be honest, if I was to find fault at all, it would be that the rooms sometimes (not always) seemed a little dark, particularly the master bedroom. After dumping our cases and taking pictures, we all agreed that we could use some sustenance and agreed to head to Downtown Disney to get something to eat. Nat and John went back to their room and we unpacked a little and had a good look round before leaving to call on them a few minutes later. As we exited the lift on the first floor, we passed the animal viewing area again and I spotted a giraffe. ‘Ooh, a giraffe’ I squealed. ‘Giraffes are boring’ replies Nat and we all crack up laughing. We decided to catch the bus to Downtown Disney and, for the first time, it struck me why people comment a lot about Animal Kingdom Lodge being too far away from everything. This thought did occur to me quite a lot over the course of the next few days too and I really do understand it now. I wouldn’t say it would prevent me from staying there again but it does detract a little from the enjoyment when you consider it’s actually quite a long journey to get anywhere (with the exception of Animal Kingdom and Blizzard Beach). At Downtown Disney we alighted the bus at the Market Place. For us, there was only one option for dinner – it had to be Earl of Sandwich. Yummy, toasted sandwiches and lashings of fizzy pop all round! While we were eating, we discussed the plans for the next day. We had a breakfast ADR at Crystal Palace at 8.15 so decided we really needed to leave no later than 7.30 and agreed we would call for Nat and John on the way down to the bus stop. Leaving Gary, John and the kids still eating, Nat and I headed to Guest Services to exchange our vouchers for 14-day Ultimate tickets. I also managed to get the two 1-day tickets Gary and I had bought (and I had subsequently lost) back in August 07, replaced with two brand new tickets (which I haven’t managed to lose yet). Back at Earl of Sandwich, we collected the kids and husbands and assured everyone we would have plenty of time for shopping when we returned the next night and over the course of the next 10 days. All feeling tired now, we trooped back to the bus stop, jumped on the waiting bus (how lucky can you get) and off we went, back to Kidani Village. The entrance looked even prettier at night, lit up by loads of lanterns tucked into crevices around the doorway. We stopped in at the shop, Johari Treasures, to buy refillable mugs and fill them up, and then we said goodnight and headed off to our respective rooms. Daniel was more than ready for bed by now and we had no problem getting him to put on his PJs and get into bed. He had decided to share a bed with Sian, and Rea was delighted to have a double bed to herself. We spent a little while unpacking but soon it was done and we were in bed ourselves by 11. We pretty much did the same thing as Joh. It was at this point I began to seriously consider that I had got way too many clothes as I had trouble fitting them into the wardrobe That done and we were all ready for bed at this point...and a very comfy bed it was! Coming soon - Chapter 3: Magic doesn't work on Buses __________________ Joh Fred and Wilma Go On Honeymoon Fred and Wilma Second Time Around Fred and Wilma and the Girls Came Too Fred, Wilma and Friends February Fun & Frolics Fred and Wilma do DVC, DCL & DDP - The Food Fred, Wilma and Family do Disney Bad Mothers Handbook - a work in progress Nat and Joh make a (food) Porno

11-16-2009, 01:36 PM	#2
jackieleanne DIS Veteran Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Manchester, England Posts: 1,076	Great stuff girls I really want to stay at AKV/AKL the rooms and place in general look amazing and those beds so comfy. __________________

11-16-2009, 03:25 PM	#3
tony64 Should've been a Cowboy In charge of driving & collecting coffee and doughnuts for breakfast Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: hampshire Posts: 6,464	Nice one joh, You have your work cut out for you, getting the report finished before we go. __________________ 1995 Paris 1997 Masters Inn 1999 Clarion Floridian 2001 HoJo 2003 Econolodge 2005 HoJo 2006 Sheraton Vistana 2007 Club Sevilla 2008 May Sheraton Vistana 2008 Aug Terrace Ridge 2009 Barefoot'n in the Keys 2010 Villa The Buckland Disney Stampede August 2005 Trip Reports The S.V.R. 2006 Trip Reports T & T Do Thanksgiving 2007 Trip Reports T&T and Two First Timers May 2008 Trip Reports T & T Do the Triple Aug 2008 Trip Reports T&T's 2nd Thanksgiving Trip Reports

11-16-2009, 03:38 PM	#5
jjk Pete and I wait and watch some lovely baby lizards I have always booked myself "Play Up Pompey" Join Date: May 2004 Location: Reading Posts: 17,204	AKL looks amazing __________________ Rachel "Play up Pompey, Pompey Play up" 2000 Disneyland paris 2003 Ramada inn 2004 Quality inn plaza2005 Cumbrian lakes2006 Emerald Island July and December2007 Emerald Island May and July2008 Emerald Island and Contemporary Resort2009 Saratoga Springssaratoga springs 2010

11-16-2009, 04:15 PM	#8
jockey Repeat after me....I LOVE CROC's, I LOVE CROC's, I LOVE CROC's!!!!!! Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: N.Ireland Posts: 5,796	Great pics I just love AKL, we stayed there in May and it was so amazing the kids loved the animals. I wanted to stay here again in a few weeks but DH picked WL! __________________ ,

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11-16-2009, 03:58 PM	#7
Danwell Earning My Ears Join Date: Aug 2009 Posts: 38	The room looks lovely

11-16-2009, 04:16 PM	#9
natalielongstaff I need a cup of tea and a big bar of free chocolate nowI will be back later too stalk some more Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: leicestershire,england Posts: 71,517	To be fair to Daniel those Giraffe's in the pics are doing themselves no favours ! they are just standing about __________________ April 2003 DLRP, November 2004 WDW and Barbados, September 2005 WDW, September 2007 WDW,October 2009 WDW

11-16-2009, 04:37 PM	#10
Tora Millypoops Cleaning my Ears Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: England Posts: 2,118	Another great tirp report! Keep them coming __________________ Success is often the result of taking a misstep in the right direction. 1998-May-Sequoia Lodge-DLP; 1999-May-Newport Bay-DLP; 2001-March-Disney's Allstars Movies Resort-WDW; 2003-March-Holiday Inn-I Drive; 2006-April-Port Orleans French Quarter-WDW; 2007-October-Saratoga Springs Resort-WDW; 2008-October-Saratoga Springs/Boardwalk Villas&Vero Beach-WDW; 2009-Wilderness Lodge/Animal Kingdom Villas

11-16-2009, 05:25 PM	#12
eeyorefanuk DIS Veteran Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Devon Posts: 1,206	Really enjoying your review .... can I ask I notice you mention grand gathering ... is this where groups of eight or more can book meals/safari etc. If so can you arrange this through disney uk if booked through them rather than US website?? I would love to stay at AK __________________ WDW Florida 1989 Off Site For 3 Weeks - SL December 2001 - NPB Summer 2005 - NPB December 2005 SF August 2006 - HNY December 2006 -NPB December 2007 - HNY May 2009 -Disneyland Paris Shareholder 2009

11-16-2009, 05:28 PM	#13
Chilly I was having a bit of a blonde moment D'oh! Married my prince at WDW Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Reading, England Posts: 7,898	I can't wait to stay at AKL as I LOVE Giraffe's (sorry Daniel). I'm ready for chapter 3 now. __________________ Claire Claire & Mikes Planning Journel & Trip Report for their Disney Wedding DIS Buddy I.C.E DisneyJo 2009 Dec /2010 Jan DFTW WDW Onsite @ GF, Poly & AKL Plus DCL on the Wonder 2008 July Engaged DLRP Onsite @ Santa Fe 2007 September WDW Onsite @ Pop 2006 September WDW Offsite 2005 May Disneyland Offsite

11-16-2009, 06:27 PM	#14
darthtatty DIS Veteran Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Coalville, leics Uk Posts: 1,199	I agree it looks fab, it does seem far away from places. cant wait for part 3 __________________ Nicky.xx May 2004 - Wedding@ Disneys Wedding Pavillion May 2004 - Honeymoon@ Contemporary Resort Feb 2005 - Sequoia Lodge@Disneyland Paris May 2009 - Holiday@ Contemporary Resort Trip Report

11-17-2009, 12:35 AM	#15
Muscateer DIS Veteran Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Muscat, Oman Posts: 2,124	Great report and photos. Loving the banter between the two of you. Reminds me of my get togethers with my best pal. __________________ Sadie

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