Back from OKW

[newarknut]

We just returned from a 6 night stay at OKW, room 3538. It was our first trip as DVC members. We received several "Welcome Homes' which was a wonderful feeling!

I realized that I don't care for resorts that are designed like OKW. It is a very nice place, however, I really prefer to walk to a boat or monorail to get to the parks. Our family has never really cared for the bus transportation and have been spoiled with stays at the Contemporary, GV, BC and Swan. We drove quite a bit on our trip. That's okay until you have a late night and don't feel like driving back. The bus trans. was good. The only problem we had was on a rainy afternoon. We were checking out WLV and decided to take a bus to Downtown Dis and catch the boat from there. Well, the ensuing storm prevented the boat trip and the time (6pm) caused the buses to be about an hour behind schedule due to Typhoon Lagoon letting out. We got to our room just in time to freshen up and head back to the Polynesian for the Luau.

Another thing I didn't care for were the steps. I felt so bad for the bellman who brought our luggage. We were on the third floor and he was terribly winded. I did tip him well!!

We spent one half day hanging out at the pool and followed that up with a trip to MGM. OKW was a very relaxing area. I have heard many people here talk about the laid back atmosphere there. It's true. However, our family prefers to be in the middle of the action so I doubt if we will stay there again.

We had a great trip, we spent a day at Disneyquest followed by dinner in Germany. We spent a couple days at EPCOT, our favorite park. The MK was way too crowded. We didn't do anything there except make an attempt to ride Buzz lightyear after the luau at 10:30pm. 60 minute wait, no thanks. We took a ride on the People Mover and left! AK was a half day as usual.

The crowds were heavier than we had expected. We've been there a few times at spring break and really don't recall ever having a problem. The other parks were busy, but the waits really weren't bad.

Newarknut

 

[llp479]

OKW is a very different atmosphere from the other resorts. I expect due to their location, DI and Eagle Pines will be as well.

We own at both BWV and OKW. We go to BWV in February for our "park" trip, and OKW for our windown in August. While we will occasionally visit parks in August, we will most likely relax by the pool and explore the Orlando area. We rent a car for the August trip, while we don't for the February trip.

I agree with your comment about the stairs. Lugging DD's stroller up three flights of stairs was no picnic. Finally got smart and started leaving it in the car, and getting it from there.

I guess it all comes down to your "vacation style". I'm just glad with DVC you have the option to experience both the "in the action" and the "away from it all."

 

[Disney Doll]

That's one of the greatest benefits of the DVC...the ability to have the "type" of vacation you enjoy.

There are times when DH and I like to be "in the action", so we would stay at BWV or the new BCV, which are close to Epcot and MGM, with the BW at your disposal. Other times, when we think we'd prefer a more laid back vacation, OKW would be the place. Other times, when we feel like we'd like a really serene setting, WLV would be the place.

You are correct about the OKW 3rd floor rooms. We usually request a room in the building with the elevators if they are going to put us on the 2nd or 3rd floor. I have schlepped luggage up those 2 or 3 flights of stairs a couple of times, and it isn't easy!!!