Back from perfect AKL stay!

[DisOrBust]

Oiur first 5 night were spent at AKL. We had rooms 2425 and 2427, Zebra trail. Perfect Savanah view and location for easy acess to pool and mara. Only short coming was we did not receive Bunk beds as requested but after a few tears the girls got over it. DDs did the cookie decorating which you do need to sign up for in advance. They had fun doing it for 1/2 hour and enjoyed eating their creations. Story teller was at 6:30 pm and again great! My girls loved it!! Hot tubs were great with the cold weather and the pool was actually warm until you got out.lol! Mara had a few more selections I thought then last year and was very good. The same soups that are at Bomas are also available at Mara. Room was clean, no mold noted and mousekeeping was fine.... no extra touches though. Bus service was never longer then a 10 minute wait. IMHO this is the place to be especially with small children. Every morning we were all watching breakfast being served on the savanah...which made it hard to hit the parks early. I also think AKL is becoming more popular. The hairwrapper had told me that AKL was at one time planned to be the "flagship" resort replacing GF. I have no idea how accurate that statement is but for this family it is our favorite!!

 

[Annie&Hallie'sMom]

Having stayed at the GF in 1999 and AKL in 2001, I'd say AKL is definitely giving the GF a run for their money. While GF has the big benefit of the monorail, I found only once that the transportation at AKL was poor (from MK to AKL one evening). Otherwise transportation was fast. While we were not impressed with Mara, we did love the Boma breakfast (although our first was the best...unfortunately an experience we had there on another trip was not very magical). The theming is incredible. I am only sorry that we only stayed there for a brief time. I would have liked to have spent more time at the resort. The unique atmosphere grabs you and doesn't want to let you go.

 

[Janet2k]

DisOrBust, in my humble opinion, the AKL beats the pants off the GF in every respect.

It sounds like you had a magical vacation. Welcome back! I hope you have some photos to share of your resort stay (hint hint!).

 

[Mitla96]

Boy, I hope AKL's price doesn't go up before I can afford to go there!

 

[Eyesnur]

I agree with Janet2k. For us, while I LOVE staying at the other Disney Resorts, my first choice is now always AKL!

I believe it is true that Disney had hoped AKL would become thier standard but once again (as has been happening recently) I think they misread the masses. I think AKL will eventualy be a strong, maybe the strongest Disney Resort, but I believe its appeal will always be somewhat limited due to the perception of it being a 'one trick pony'.

I am truly happy to see its popularity grow, but like others I hope it won't get so popular so as to price me out!

We've visited AKL 7 times and number 8 is only a couple of weeks away....hooohooo!

 

[DisOrBust]

Janet as soon as I get organized I will post pics.,,that could be awhile .

I think the "prices" are already increasing . Now with an AP rate standard view is 179.00. During our stay it was 109.00. I don't even think Savanah views are discounted with this round of discounts.

 

[lookingforward]

I agree with Janet2K too! Having just stayed at the RPC GF this holiday season and stayed at the AKL concierge in April and AKL WINS hands down. The hotel is remote but that is part of the beauty of it. When you drive up and pass through the gate it really just takes your breath away. We are looking forward to another visit there this spring.

The staff at AKL really work well together and seem very happy to be there. The concierge services and offerings were so wonderful and kid friendly. And that pool! I am so glad you had a great visit!

 

[DrDoobie]

Hi guys & gals -

I'm new here but been learning alot about the resorts.

I am taking my wife to AKL Feb 9th - 13th for our anniversary. I have planned to stay on the Concierge Level.

2 Questions - Is it worth the extra $$ over the Savanna View rooms (Paying $247 per night for Concierge)

2nd - What can I expect from them (This is my first time booking a concierge level room). Will they offer special touches for our anniversary night?

Any other tips about the lodge, room location, etc... would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

Jason

 

[lookingforward]

Jason:
I think you got a GREAT rate fot the AKL concierge. The staff should have contacted you already about your upcoming stay. I would call them right away and make sure they help you with your trip planning. They can make your reservations, give you suggestions, etc. They can also arrange for a gift to be delivered for your wife, etc. like flowers, candy, etc. Request a savannah view and let them know it is your anniversary so they can request a nice room for you.

The reason the concierge rate is worth it to me is the ammenities.You get instant check in.When you arrive they will whisk you right past the check in desk and take you right to your room. They will personalize your itinerary and call to check on you. The lounge offers a wonderful, extensive breakfast, snacks most of the day and heavy hor dourves in the evening. After dinner it offers wonderful desserts, coffees, liquors. The BEST thing about the concierge is the SUNRISE SAFARI. Call and reserve a space right away.It is only for concierge guests and costs about $40 (not sure of current price) but it is a tour (small group) of the Animal Kingdom which takes you on a private, extended safari ride before the park opens. It was wonderful and then they take you to the Tusker House for a great hot breakfast feast. The resort is, in my opinion, the best for a romantic vacation. It is quiet, warm and very scenic. The pool is beautiful, there is a gym/massage area, great restauarants, and wonderful service.

I don't think you will regret paying the extra $ for concierge.
Have fun!