We've gone to WDW as a family 3 times. Stayed at WLV first time, BCV 2nd time, BWV third time. Absolutely loved the BWV the best (loved being right on the boardwalk, proximity with Epcot, pool). I was hoping to stay at BWV again next time, but we are potentially looking at week after Easter.. but peak rates (rack rate, after taxes, for a 1BR villa that week is 816 a night) with low likelihood of scoring discounts stinks bigtime.
So, I called Swan and Dolphin to see what rates I could get for a similar room (1 bedroom executive suite seems to be the closest match). It was mid 600's for the Dolphin, and 520 for Swan. By my math it's around 600 after all the associated taxes (12.5% total?) and resort fee (25/day). That's a AAA rate. I grabbed it, just to secure it. Figure I can wait and see if there are discounted BWV available later on (or perhaps I try something like Dave's DVC rentals).
So... is that a good rate for that timeframe? Swan suites.. nice? I understand what we don't get vs. a Disney owned resort, and I think those are trades I'm cool with (given the savings). My major remaining concerns are:
- laundry? where is it? (easy to get to? at the villas we have laundry in the room - we love that)
- no kitchenette.. what do we get? (just a fridge?)
- longer walk to Epcot and to boardwalk (how much longer? about 5 minutes?)
On the flip side, they are newly renovated, seem more roomy, have two bathrooms.
Any input is appreciated. (wondering if I should continue to watch for other options or plan on Swan)
