1st DVC Trip Approaching! Home to AKV!

[EWL]

Hi All,

We're just over a month out before our first trip "home" to AKV! Wondering if anyone has some first-timer DVC and/or AKV tips?

We're staying four nights in a savannah view studio in Jambo House and then two nights in a standard studio in Kidani. I also asked that we be waitlisted for the last two nights in a value studio in Jambo (realizing there are few of them-- but it would save us a few points); I can't recall-- the waitlist expires at 30 days is it? But I could call and have it extended? Also about to call and add DDP (already have all our ADRs) and ME. Think things are lining up! Can't believe it!

 

[wildernessDad]

I think that before the 30 day point, you should cancel the waitlist. You wouldn't want to get the waitlist within 30 days and have the remaining points go into the holding account.

 

[EWL]

I think that before the 30 day point, you should cancel the waitlist. You wouldn't want to get the waitlist within 30 days and have the remaining points go into the holding account.

AHHH--yes!! Thank you wildernessDad! I knew there was something about 30 days that I was forgetting!

 

[bobbiwoz]

At least one evening, go to the "cultural safari" given by a CM. They're held both in Jambo and Kidani, and I've learned a lot about Africa from going to them, and the CM's are very enthusiastic about sharing information.

Bobbi

 

[ChiSoxKeith]

Don't know if they have one at Jambo, but when you are over at Kidani make sure you head on out to the firepit one night. It's just off the main lobby (you need to go downstairs like you are headed to Sanaa). It's really beautiful to sit out there at night and see the animals wandering about. Usually they have a CM out there. Mario (from Kenya) was out there each night when we were there. He was perfect. Knew when to talk / tell stories about his home and the animals, and when to just let people enjoy the silence.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Just to expand on what bobbiwoz said, make sure you check that list of activities carefully. One thing I love about AKL is all the wonderful activities available-tour of Jiko and Boma, tour of Sanaa, ceramics painting, jewelry making, movies at the pool area, etc. Also, learn from our first DVC trip mistake-don't forget to pack coffee! We didn't, and although they give you a start-up pack of coffee, you're on your own the second day.
And have some butternut squash soup at Mara for me.

 

[jlhay]

Glad to see these tips too! We are not DVC but are renting points and staying at in savannah view studio at Jambo house for the first time!

Our trip is about 45 days away, so I guess we are little bit after the OP. We did have a night at Kidani as well but the waitlist came through so its all Jambo savannah view. I was looking forward to seeing a Kidani studio too but not switching rooms will be nice. And we'll visit Kidani for sure!

 

[MaggieMollyMom]

Just to expand on what bobbiwoz said, make sure you check that list of activities carefully. One thing I love about AKL is all the wonderful activities available-tour of Jiko and Boma, tour of Sanaa, ceramics painting, jewelry making, movies at the pool area, etc. Also, learn from our first DVC trip mistake-don't forget to pack coffee! We didn't, and although they give you a start-up pack of coffee, you're on your own the second day.
And have some butternut squash soup at Mara for me.

I second the tip about the coffee! Plus it was HORRIBLE! To be honest, I didn't really find a decent cup the whole vacay.

We are new members to and had our first trip last Dec. at Kidani in a Sav. View. It was AMAZING! When we arrived, it was about 3 pm, went right to the balcony in the room and there were the giraffes!!! It was like they planned it! I loved that. This time we are going back to AK but at Jambo in a standard view to save points (wanted a 1 bed).

Have a great time!

 

[Mert]

HAVE A GREAT TRIP AND WELCOME HOME. EVEN IF YOU'VE BEEN TO DISNEY MANY TIMES. NOW AS A NEW MEMBER MY BEST ADVICE IS TO TAKE IT SLOW AND DONT TAKE ON TO MUCH YOU'LL BE ABLE TO GO BACK MANY TIMES. TRY NEW THINGS. ALOT MORE DISNEY, AND OUTSIDE THINGS TO DO

 

[EWL]

Thanks everyone for the great tips! We are very excited and definitely will check out the activities and catch the animal talks. And thank you for the tip on coffee!!! I would definitely become Grumpy without my AM java!! Imagine we need filters too-- what type?

That butternut squash soup sounds awesome....

 

[LeahA]

Have a great trip! That's our home resort too!

 

[Havana]

There is nothing like AKL! Enjoy every moment!

 

[lauch]

Do you guys like to have lots of peace and quiet, or do you like to get a little rowdy?
There are some meet and greet events for members only you may want to check out. I think they happen wednesdays around the Boardwalk. Then you can hit Jellyrolls and go nuts shortly before returning to your little slice of heaven at AKL. Have a great trip!!! Congrats!!!

 

[TheWho]

I just came back from 3 nights in a 1 bedroom at Jambo. It was a savana view on the 5 floor. We had a great time before moving over to BCV.
Have fun.

 

[supersuperwendy]

I read you can get night vision goggles at Jambo to see the animals at night!!

 

[Brancaneve]

You will absolutely love it! Just enjoy the peace and tranquility of the resort. My kids and I loved the pool at Kidani because it was small enough that I could keep my eyes on them at all times and they couldn't get enough of the splash area and the slide.

Our first time at AKV was in a studio at Jambo house and I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the kitchenette. We ate several meals there and I therefore highly recommend buying a few breakfast and lunch items to cut back on costs. And don't forget to eat at Sanaa! Yummy!

 

[shortypots]

Definitely check out the night vision goggles at Jambo house. They have about 2 -4 pairs of goggles each night (I forget the times) but you go out there and wait your turn then you get to use these goggles to see what the animals are doing at night. The CM's will even tell you where to look to see what is going on where. Very cool!