AKL or WDW Swan/Dolphin

[DisneyJoo2008]

Hi all

My family and I have been chatting about our Disney trip next year and we've made a few more decisions... Mum's decided she'd like to stay at AKL or the WDW Swan/Dolphin... so CSR, POP and POFQ are out for us for now...!

I was reading our UK holiday brochures and I understand that even though the Swan/Dolphin is an 'official' Disney hotel, its privately managed and so there are some differences to the 'other' Disney hotels...

Is this right and if so what are they and do they matter???!!!

Also, our trip isn't until June 2008, does anyone have any ideas on what state the renovations at AKL will be in?

Many thanks, Joo xxx

 

[RachelTori]

The only differences with the Swan/Dolphin are: 1) You can not get Magical Express to/from the airport; 2) You can not be on the Disney Dining Plan or a vacation package - tickets will need to be purchased separately; 3) You can not charge to your room [except purchases/meals at Swan & Dolphin]; and 4) there is a $9/day charge to park a vehicle.

The benefits definitely outweigh those 4 things! You can usually get a very good rate - much less than you'd pay for the other Epcot resorts. And the Swan & Dolphin are truly *Deluxe* resorts!

The location can't be beat for Epcot and Disney-MGM Studios (which will be renamed "Disney Hollywood Studios" by the time of your visit, I believe!) You also get full use of Disney transportation (buses, boats & monorails) during your stay.

Here's a link to a thread which will welcome your questions:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=680909&page=213


As for AKL: Construction in the existing lodge should be finished well before your trip in June 2008. Here's a link that you'll find helpful:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=752192&page=603

Another great group of DISers who will be happy to answer your questions!

My personal feeling, both Swan/Dolphin and AKL are wonderful resorts and you'll have a fabulous time no matter which your family chooses!