AKL & WL 1st time

[kawanku]

We usually stayed at POFQ and didn't really get AKL until 2 days before we left. Even then, we didn't get the days we wanted but we are fine since the kids really wanted to see the animals. Got there without AKL reservation but was able to get a room there. We were even given the room with bunk bed which the kids (DD 3, DS 6) really love! I never asked for an upgrade - was not even expecting to be given the room (our reservation for those days were for POFQ). I used the discount rate that I got through email so I only paid $109 - that's why I told CM that I was really thankful for the magic.

We love our stay at AKL very much - went to AK 3 times since it was next door (literally just took us 2 minutes driving). Pool is really nice and warm. Restaurants are magical too. We always rented a van since we also have a 15 mos DD so transportation never an issue for us.

Moving day from AKL to WL was a breeze too. Bell services helped me with the luggage and we checked out around 10.30 and went to WL directly. I was not hoping to get a room but we got a room right away and we again got a bunk bed with a pool view. I just can't believe my luck (never been that lucky before) and again I didn't ask for it since I know I only paid standard room.

Love the pool & restaurants too. DD got a hair wrap here near the pool. We never had any housekeeping problems either. But we are not concerned with some comments from other poster since we know that this is a vacation and the best approach is to enjoy it as much as you can.

If you have any questions, I will try to answer as best as I can.

 

[dopeyfanatic]

Which hotel did you like best? I'mt rying to decide which one to try for with 3 little kids...Oldest will be 5 1/2, middle son almost 4, youngest 2.

 

[kawanku]

AKL - for the reasons:
1. it is newer and the layout of the room is a lot better.
2. zero entry pool - good for younger kids (even our baby can just sit in the water without me holding her all the time)
3. kids love the animals viewing - at night they give you special goggle (like military one) to view the animal
4. more drawer space to put your stuffs - there are 4 below tv armoir, and another 3 or 4 next to the closet (they are all bigger than WL drawer space)

The only downside:
- location if you don't have your own transportation.
We always want to have a van when we are in WDW regardless where we stay for convenience reason. So it is not an issue for us.

 

[Taratink]

We will be at the WL next month. Our kids are the same age. I am nervous that the quaters will be too tight. How did you manage? How was Roaring forks? We picked WL because we love MK and do not plan to visit the Animal Kingdom this trip.
Tara

 

[kawanku]

Never a problem for our kids. We even put a crib in between queen bed and bunk bed for the baby to nap. I guess the other two have too much fun with their bed. LOL.

 

[karensi]

kawanku, what area did you stay in at AKL? Which trail and which savannah? How was your view?