am now leery after browsing threads after threads...

[markII]

I have stayed a week at SSR, and 2 nights at AKL, and been in rooms at WL and OKW. I like them all for different reasons. Proximity to parks, bus stops, views, pools, etc its all about your preference. The rooms at OKW and SSR (especially OKW) are bigger than the 'hotel' size room we were in at AKL. But AKL had cool views of animals, nice pool, etc... OKW and SSR when we got back from a day at the parks, it was like being in a nice condo, very quiet and spacious. I think OKW burns less points, and has big rooms, so definitely more bang for the buck... You just cant beat the price now the SSR promotion... I'm waiting for my DVD info to arrive, they sure arent 'hard' selling it.

 

[veenstra56]

Is OKW and SSR a bad resort ? I have often seen this two on the same boat when compared to other dvc resort. Usually use in a sentence such as "if SSR or OKW suits you then it's ok for you to buy in with the present home resort sale." Isn't it SSR is the newest one ? Have you found anything wrong about it ( to all who had been to SSR ). Are there more disadvantage for this location ? SOme even suggested I wait for AKL Villas But then I am now an AKL type of person. If really would be given a choice ( even though I have not been there yet) I would like FWV since I love the WL !!! Am on it's last leg, all I need to do is sign and mail the papers back to the Disney Agent who helped us. Now am so lost

It is my opinion that OKW and SSR get a bad rap because they are not adjacent to any park and because they are large resorts (the two largest, in fact). And because of their size, they are relatively easy to book at the 7 month point.

Conversely, partly because of their size (though this is not the only reason), resorts like BCV and VWL are more difficult to get into at the 7 month point. This makes them (and to a lesser extent BWV) more coveted than SSR or OKW because people know that they can get into the bigger resorts on shorter notice but may need the 11 month priviledge of owning at the smaller resorts to assure a reservation there.

When enough people think this way it creates a situation where people are willing to pay a premium for owning at the smaller resorts. It also plays a factor in making people perceive that places like SSR or OKW aren't as nice as the others. In reality, it's often about simple supply and demand.

There are certainly other factors that play into the whole equation, but SSR and OKW are beautiful resorts in their own right. I will say, though, that I truly believe that the new AKV resort will end up surpassing SSR and OKW in terms of popularity.

 

[doubletrouble_vb]

SSR and OKW are standalone resorts so they get lumped together. They are also both anchored by golf courses. SSR has the additional draw of walking distance to DTD. It's pretty natural to lump the two of them together. BWV and BCV also fall naturally together because they are very close and both EPCOT resorts. VWL loosely fits in with BWV and BCV but is more of a natural fit with the non-existent CRV or even the highly unlikely FWCV (I think it'd be neat to replace the cabins with DVC and dedicated campsites...or even houses floating on the lake).

The only situation where I personally would not buy is OKW if my intent is primarily to stay in studios with one or two people.

 

[jemiaule]

It's like picking a favorite color. Try to convince someone else that yours is right and theirs is wrong.

There is the right resort for everyone - just pick the one that is right for you.

This is a perfect analogy! No one can tell you what is going to be right for you; you have to look at the options and decided for yourself.

I believe to make an informed choice you really have to know your travel habits, your comfort levels and a basic idea of what your prefered accomodations are.

I am a hotel kinda gal - ok...a conceirge level, suite kinda gal. I like comfort, services and accessibility. I know this about myself and had to take that into consideration when buying.

I have stayed at SSR, loved the rooms, found them comfy...but would NOT stay there again. Why? They are not my prefered type of accomodations. I don't like open buildings, how spread out things are and having to walk every where. I think SSR is an awesome resort...but it is not the right kind of resort for ME and not how I prefer to travel.

Now I bet you there are dozens (if not hundreds) of DIS folks who love to travel this way - they like the apartment/condo open buildings, they like that things are spread out (and possibly drove, something this California gal is not going to do) and enjoy strolling to the places in the resort or to downtown disney. SSR just suits them and they find it an amazing place to vacation.

I have stayed at Boardwalk and Beach Club and love them. I like the convenience, having the hotel amenities and services if I want them (hello room service! ) and having a lot to look at and see without hiking a ways to get there. These hotel resorts are the best fit for ME and my preferences.

Now I bet there are dozens (if not hundreds) of DIS folks reading this and thinking YUCK! They may not like a hotel atmosphere (someone mentioned enclosed hallways), prefer to cook and would never use room service, and like a place that seems more like a neighborhood or community. More power to them; they know what they like!

Neither type of vacationer (hotel type, condo type) is right or wrong - just different. Different likes, dislikes, needs and preferences. Thankfully Disney gives us options so we can all stay at the resort that best suits us. Who knows, in a few years I may be one of the folks who decides they like the "condo" kind of resort better than the hotel kind of resort.

In a couple of weeks I am staying at OKW with the family. I know, I know it is more like SSR in feel and is not attached to a hotel. I have read just too many good things about OKW that I want to experience it for myself and see what I think.

Maybe it will make me a "condo" style resort convert . But without a guy bringing me my morning pot of coffee from room service I kinda doubt it . Maybe I just need to get my hubby a room service uniform and have him wake up early and bring in the coffee

 

[byoung]

All the DVC resorts have there own thing, you may like one over the others. Stay at any of them you will enjoy it there.

 

[mikron]

I own SSR and OKW and have stayed at all the resorts in disney plus VB & HH. Didney Daddy hits it on the head.

 

[WDW LifeLong Fan]

We have stayed at all the DVC resorts and enjoyed all of them for different reasons. None are perfect and none are bad. They all have their positives and their negatives, you simply have to decide what it is that appeals to you most.

We like the condo setup of OKW and SSR as we always have a car and don't want it far from us. We like outside entrances that both offer instead of long hallways and a lobby. We like the buses just fine and since no location is close to every park, the bus situation is ok with us. We prefer to ride than walk (we get enough walking at the parks) so the closeness to our villa of the bus stops at OKW and SSR appeal to us greatly.

I like the Counter Service at SSR best of any Disney resort DVC or non. I love the open airy sitting area at Artist Pallette and really like the food choices, and the service is great.

We like being near Downtown Disney because we want an alternative to the parks, as our group is mostly older and appreciate that option.

So basically it depends on what you want and less about what appeals to others. Just don't let anyone convince you that OKW and SSR are in the middle of nowhere, as that is simply not true, they are as close to MK, as BCV and BWV and only one mile to Epcot. Equal distance to AK and the closest to DD.

This sums up my opinion perfectly!

 

[ANTSS2001]

Thank you all... after reading all your positive comments I can now trully relax.. I think For the 1st time I called the 800 number and was able to book my April vaca at SSR since the dates that I wanted the only studio available are located at both SSR and OKW only. The one for january is a different story. I only got the 1st 2 days and on the wait list for the last 2 nites. But if I don't get anything I will def'ly have to call in for Pop !!! I just hope they would have some more room open for that week since it is the marathon weekend And hopefully in 2 days I can finalize my Sept. vaca and call that in too! I guess am finishing all 180 points this year at SSR but that's all good! There's 39 years for me to try the other DVC resorts in the future

Again my sinceremost gratitude to all of your patience! I know this will not be the last of all my stupid question!

 

[Mazz519]

As always it all boils down to your own personal taste. If you like to be in the middle of things BWV and BCV are the choice if you like a little peace and quiet then OKW and SSR are the choice. Choose what you prefer the most and buy there with the option to try the other resorts. Either way your buying into DVC so thats the best part.

 

[dr&momto2boys]

All the resorts are great! You really can't go wrong. I think the main advantage is the resorts location to the parks. If you have older kids or no kids that probably doesn't matter much either.

 

[bpmorley]

All the resorts are great! You really can't go wrong. I think the main advantage is the resorts location to the parks. If you have older kids or no kids that probably doesn't matter much either.

Let's not forget about what one can afford. They make value & Moderate resorts for a reason.

 

[Sammie]

As always it all boils down to your own personal taste. If you like to be in the middle of things BWV and BCV are the choice if you like a little peace and quiet then OKW and SSR are the choice. Choose what you prefer the most and buy there with the option to try the other resorts. Either way your buying into DVC so thats the best part.

How are the BCV and BWV any more in the middle of things that SSR and OKW. I agree the actual resorts of OKW and SSR are more peaceful and quiet, but SSR and OKW are right there at Downtown Disney with more shops, entertainment and eateries than any location at Disney.

 

[Dean]

How are the BCV and BWV any more in the middle of things that SSR and OKW. I agree the actual resorts of OKW and SSR are more peaceful and quiet, but SSR and OKW are right there at Downtown Disney with more shops, entertainment and eateries than any location at Disney.

I can't speak for the poster you quoted. However it is clear that the majority of people view BWV and BCV as a more desirable place to stay and own that the other 2. They are certainly more in the middle of the action being within walking distance or an easy boat ride to EPCOT and MGM. Like you, I prefer he quieter resorts. However, their proximity to DD does not seem to enhance their appeal to the masses nor would I expect it to as proximity to them parks seems to be the key ingredient for most.

 

[Sammie]

I can't speak for the poster you quoted. However it is clear that the majority of people view BWV and BCV as a more desirable place to stay and own that the other 2. They are certainly more in the middle of the action being within walking distance or an easy boat ride to EPCOT and MGM. Like you, I prefer he quieter resorts. However, their proximity to DD does not seem to enhance their appeal to the masses nor would I expect it to as proximity to them parks seems to be the key ingredient for most.

Maybe it's the terminology of being in the middle of every thing that always confuses me. To me WDW is so much more than Epcot and MGM. It is downtown Disney, water parks, golfing, lakes, and definitely AK and MK.

I will agree if anyone states that if one wishes to be in the middle of Epcot and MGM with walking access, then definitely BCV and BWV fill that bill. However to me the middle of everything is a misnomer.

I don't find being one mile from Epcot, and 3 miles from MGM, closer to MK and same distance to AK, which SSR and OKW are, the middle of nowhere either.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Maybe it's the terminology of being in the middle of every thing that always confuses me. To me WDW is so much more than Epcot and MGM. It is downtown Disney, water parks, golfing, lakes, and definitely AK and MK.

I will agree if anyone states that if one wishes to be in the middle of Epcot and MGM with walking access, then definitely BCV and BWV fill that bill. However to me the middle of everything is a misnomer.

I don't find being one mile from Epcot, and 3 miles from MGM, closer to MK and same distance to AK, which SSR and OKW are, the middle of nowhere either.

I agree Sammie, and we shouldn't forget that before Boardwalk, OKW was considered to be an "Epcot area resort", but then it was named Disney Vacation Club then too, and not OKW.

 

[bpmorley]

Like you, I prefer he quieter resorts. However, their proximity to DD does not seem to enhance their appeal to the masses

I think this is the reason that OKW & SSR appeal more to adults traveling without children.

 

[Dean]

Maybe it's the terminology of being in the middle of every thing that always confuses me. To me WDW is so much more than Epcot and MGM. It is downtown Disney, water parks, golfing, lakes, and definitely AK and MK.

I will agree if anyone states that if one wishes to be in the middle of Epcot and MGM with walking access, then definitely BCV and BWV fill that bill. However to me the middle of everything is a misnomer.

I don't find being one mile from Epcot, and 3 miles from MGM, closer to MK and same distance to AK, which SSR and OKW are, the middle of nowhere either.

I think that's part of the problem. Established DVC members are not the typical WDW guest and are even far different from new members. Even for the seasoned vets, I think the resorts that are accessible by means other than a car or bus seems to be the dividing line between in and out of the action regardless of what you or I think. The preferences of any single member means NOTHING, it's the overall aggregate of the preferences of all members as well as those who would rent from them that determines the end result. OKW is not walking distance and the boat transportation is not enough to be worthwhile other than as a novelty. And the bus system there seems to be sub par compared to most of the other resorts. SSR is a little better in that regard but not that much. IMO, when most people talk about being "in the middle" or any similar terminology, they are not talking geographic but ambience and non bus/car access. We know that the members as a whole book BCV, BWV, VWL to the exclusion of SSR/OKW because they book up faster and are harder to get during busier times.

 

[Dean]

I think this is the reason that OKW & SSR appeal more to adults traveling without children.

Likely to a degree. Those type members tend to travel at different times of the year as well, somewhat more off season.

 

[kimszath]

I've stayed at all of them, but I actually prefer the spaciousness of the rooms at SSR and OKW. The points savings are nice, too--more than a fair tradeoff for not being within walking distance of the parks! The bus service at SSR is better than at any other resort, from my experience. My kiddo really enjoys being able to take the boat over to DTD from both of those resorts, as well (we enjoy the variety of entertainment and restaurant choices over there, while Olivia's at OKW is very good, and the counter service restaurant at SSR is excellent--fantastic pizzas, and about half the menu is new every day, so you don't have a chance to get tired of it!) The only downside I could see to either OWK or SSR is if you don't have a car--there are so many things to do on that side of the property, like running over to the grocery store to stock the kitchen, plus the Crossroads area has a number of good restaurants if you want a change--Chevy's, Jungle Jim's, Macaroni Grill, Chili's, Olive Garden, Hooters, KOBE Japanese Steakhouse, lots more (yes you can get those at home, but sometimes you KNOW what you want, and it's at one of those restaurants!) When we stay at SSR, we feel like we could skip the parks altogether and still have an excellent vacation right there at the resort. The pool is wonderful and spacious (my son LOVES the big water slide!), there are so many big comfy quiet areas there that you can get away to... grab some sandwiches from the counter service restaurant, and take a blanket out alongside the lake across from DTD to watch fireworks... priceless. We just added another 115 point contract at SSR to our 300 points.

 

[Dean]

I've stayed at all of them, but I actually prefer the spaciousness of the rooms at SSR and OKW. The points savings are nice, too--more than a fair tradeoff for not being within walking distance of the parks! The bus service at SSR is better than at any other resort, from my experience. My kiddo really enjoys being able to take the boat over to DTD from both of those resorts, as well (we enjoy the variety of entertainment and restaurant choices over there, while Olivia's at OKW is very good, and the counter service restaurant at SSR is excellent--fantastic pizzas, and about half the menu is new every day, so you don't have a chance to get tired of it!) The only downside I could see to either OWK or SSR is if you don't have a car--there are so many things to do on that side of the property, like running over to the grocery store to stock the kitchen, plus the Crossroads area has a number of good restaurants if you want a change--Chevy's, Jungle Jim's, Macaroni Grill, Chili's, Olive Garden, Hooters, KOBE Japanese Steakhouse, lots more (yes you can get those at home, but sometimes you KNOW what you want, and it's at one of those restaurants!) When we stay at SSR, we feel like we could skip the parks altogether and still have an excellent vacation right there at the resort. The pool is wonderful and spacious (my son LOVES the big water slide!), there are so many big comfy quiet areas there that you can get away to... grab some sandwiches from the counter service restaurant, and take a blanket out alongside the lake across from DTD to watch fireworks... priceless. We just added another 115 point contract at SSR to our 300 points.

Funny that SSR is the same size and basic design as BWV, BCV & VWL.