BLT vs. AKV with friends in June

[PixieDust215]

Hi, Everyone,

I need some advice. A friend and her family are going to WDW with us next June. It’s their first time, and she has a DH, DD9 and DS3. We decided to get a 2 bedroom. Lanna said that she’d like to stay at AKV because she thinks the kids would like it. My thought was to use our 11-month window at BLT and get an MK-view booked now. She’s fine with whatever I say since they’ve never been, and they’ll probably stick to us like glue. =) This is my debate – I want them to be soaked in the Disney magic, but I don’t know if BLT will do that. For me, the big plusses for BLT are monorail, MK view, Bay Lake, and location. However, it will cost us about 100 points more than AKV. Then again, the AKV’s décor, animals, and swim area look awesome! (We’ll be there for our first DVC trip at Thanksgiving!) I’m also a bit nervous about waiting until mid-November for the 7-month opening to book an AKV reservation. I don’t know if I’ll have a problem booking a 2-bedroom. I’m a DVC newbie, so there’s still a lot to learn, I know.

We haven’t posed the AKV vs. BLT debate to her yet but would like to do so this weekend. Like I said, she’ll do whatever, but if this is their trip of a lifetime, then I want it to be great. Please let me know what you think. Thanks for all your help!

 

[hellerjw]

I don't think it will be a problem getting a 2BR at AKV for next June. The new Kidani building will be completely finished by the end of this year and once it is AKV will be the second largest resort after SSR.

The biggest question with AKV is which building to stay in. The original Jambo House has more restaurants, including the only counter service at AKV. The new Kidani building has the extra bathrooms in the 1BR and larger and the new water play area but it lacks a counter service option which may be important to you. Both are serviced by the same bus system, which is dedicated to AKV.

We stayed at Kidani this past June and had very short waits and no issues with the buses. The water play area is great and the new water slide was much longer and more exciting that I expected.

I don't think they would disappointed at either BLT or AKV. If you are going for a uniquely themed location I think AKV is the better choice. If you are looking for convenience to WDW then BLT is the winner.

 

[dizfan]

I don't think you can go wrong with either resort.

African and animals vs. being close to the park they will likely visit most.

In my opinion, if you plan to spend lots of time at the room/resort, AKV has more options. If the children will take afternoon naps, parents can sit on the balcony and watch the animals.

If you plan to be in the parks most of the time, but just take pool breaks and such, BLT gives you the convenience. MK view would also allow the family to watch fireworks from BLT and have the children in bed soon afterward. Also, convenience to Chef Mickey's (and other monorail resorts) for character meals.

You could save on points at BLT and get a Lake View. You may get lucky and get a room on the north side so you would still be able to see MK. This would save points. Unless the policy changes, can also go to the Top of the World Lounge and see fireworks from up there.

Again, I think they are both great resort choices for your friends.

 

[pilferk]

First trip?

Look , I LOVE AKL...we bought in to AKV DVC. My kids love waking up and seeing the animals outside our windows. But for a "first trip", I'd book the BLT MK view. Something about that view is just magical and the transport to MK is pretty much unrivaled. You can WALK there!

You could always schedule a dinner at Boma's, at the Lodge, so they can check it out.

I don't think you can go wrong, either way, really.

 

[dgaston]

Or there is the infamous split-stay option.

 

[PixieDust215]

Thanks. You've all helped me a lot!!!

 

[flipflopmom]

With a 3 year old in a stroller, first trip, definitely BLT. You'll have 2 parks that you can monorail to, which means little one can stay in the stroller. AKV is soooo coool, but I think for a first trip, less time on busses and folding strollers would be what I choose!