AKL, how to get upgraded free

[jbethke]

We are staying at AKL December 1st through the 4th, two rooms reserved. I know that during this time, it is considered Valve season.

We currently are booked in a Standard view room. Is there a way, during check-in, that we can get them to upgrade us to a pool or Savannah view room for no additional charge?

If they are not full and have those rooms available do they usually do this for guests.

We have two Annual Pass holders and One Disney Club holder in the group, are they more willing up upgrade when rooms are available at no charge for those AP and DC holders?

What is the best strategy to use when checking in to get upgraded for free?

Or is there something we could do now to ensure this?

 

[gepetto]

I don't think you can count on getting a free upgrade even if it isn't busy. Chances are that since you are paying for a standard view room, that is what you will recieve.

If the view is that important to you, I'd suggest booking a savannah view room. They are discounting those as well.

 

[mrsltg]

HI-

I am staying at the AKL in November and have booked a standard room as well. Upgrades are the luck of the draw from what I understand. If the hotel is not full, then you may well get a bump up. I would definitely advise you not to expect it though... you're only setting yourself up for a disappointment. There is no way to ensure an upgrade, other than paying for it, of course!

Good luck

Erin

 

[Disneylvr]

Some people get upgraded at AKL and others don't. I don't think there is any rhyme or reason to it. Please don't arrive expecting an upgrade because you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. We have a standard room booked for Sept. 27-Oct 2 and while an upgrade would be wonderful, I am not counting on it. There are plenty of areas at the resort to view the savannahs so I feel lucky just to be able to stay at a deluxe.

 

[ead79]

We got a complimentary upgrade from a standard to a savannah view room this past May. We just politely asked at check-in if they had any extra savannah view rooms available and the CM checked and they did. I definitely agree with the other posters though. Don't set yourself up for disappointment by assuming that you'll be able to get a free upgrade. It's really just luck of the draw and how full they are as a resort.

 

[jbethke]

That is kind of what I thouht, just the luck of the draw, so let's hope it is one of my lucky days.

I certainly won't expect, I also wouldn't want to be disappointed. I am just very glad to be staying at one of the Deluxe resorts for this trip.

Thanks for all the reply's

 

[beccab]

WOW! I just misinterpeted the post about "lightning" in AKL.
instead of lighting. Then I read this post that mentioned VALVE season. I thought my eyes were playing tricks again. Well at least not this time.

We got an upgrade but only because our room was not ready 1hr after check in. I also think who helps you at the reservation desk makes a difference. The first CM never suggested an upgrade. The next time I check with a different CM & she offered the upgrade.

Good luck. You will have a good time no matter.

 

[Mom of 5]

We stayed at AKL in January in 2 savannah view rooms. While we were checking in and doing other business at the front desk, we saw several people receiving complimentary upgrades from standard to water view.

Maybe you'll get lucky !!

 

[the Legend]

If you are really interested, you could make a plee for an upgrade on room request fax stating any special cases eg 'My Sons GrandMothers Daughter birthday', 'Never stayed on a Tuesday', 'My what a nice smile you have', 'This is my first Animal Kingdom Lodge stay, sweetie?'

If you want you can also pay for an upgrade at the counter should you win lotto etc before checkin. We are probably paying for a WL upgrade to concierge in Sept ($35/night extra from Courtyard view). We are also staying at AKL so I'll let you know how it goes!

Like the others have stated, expect nothing but be totally appreciative if it happens. You'll be surprised how many people read these boards and think room upgrades are a Right not a Privilege. Have fun and dont forget to let us know how it went.

 

[n2mm]

The best part about upgrades is not expecting them. I've gotten a few during my many stays, and they were always a surprise. I got upgraded to pool view at the AKL last January.

 

[lemstar]

a couple of years ago, we went to disney for a family reunion--there were 12 of us, in 6 rooms. we had reserved tower rms at the contemporary, it was value season, and the hotel was not fully booked. my dad had been very ill (and has since died), and i requested an upgrade to club level, first by a letter explaining that this may very well be our last trip with my dad, and he had been on dialysis, which is a rough road. then upon arrival, i asked nicely, explaining the circumstances. no speical disney magic for us--i realize i was asking for a concierge upgrade, but it sure would have been nice, and special....my dad would have loved it....oh well.........

 

[ducklite]

I think your chances are lowered because you have two rooms booked, especially if they are connecting.

We stayed at the AKL during that time frame this past year and the place was FULL.

Anne