Ok, so the 7 month window for the DVC stay we were looking for was this morning, and unfortunately we didn't end up getting our top pick, which was AKL. Ughhh. However, we did manage to book all 5 nights in DVC studios, with a split stay between Saratoga Springs and Old Key West! Other than being disappointed in missing out on AKL (and there's always next time, I have stayed there once before, but not the bf), I am just thrilled that we were able to get 5 nights in deluxe resorts for only $20/night more than the cheapest Value option! And these will be 2 resorts we've never stayed in before, since the only deluxe I've EVER stayed at was AKL. So now, decked out in all their holiday glory, we will have 2 Saratoga nights and 3 Old Key West nights.
So, for anyone who is interested, here's our whole trip itinerary so far, and feel free to ignore if you're bored by it, hehe
Miami:
11/30-12/2 - Hotel Astor, Miami Beach
Florida Keys:
12/2-12/3 - Seashell Beach Resort, Marathon
12/3-12/5 - Coconut Beach Resort, Key West
12/5-12/6 - Seafarer Resort and Beach, Key Largo
WDW:
12/6-12/8 - Saratoga Springs DVC studio
12/8-12/11 - Old Key West DVC studio
park plans so far:
Tues, 12/6: 4.5 hr drive from Key Largo - check in to Saratoga Springs, get settled, relax. Walk to Disney Springs to soak in the Christmasy stuff there
Wed, 12/7: Epcot - might scope out Candlelight Processional
Thurs, 12/8: morning - transfer to Old Key West. Monorail tour of resorts to see Christmas decorations. afternoon/evening -
MVMCP in MK (4pm-midnight)
Fri, 12/9: Hollywood Studios
Sat, 12/10: Animal Kingdom
Sun, 12/11: fly home