Can I ask about Old Key West here?

[lorilori]

Hi all. Hope this is the right board for questions on Old Key West. I'd love to hear all the pros and cons to stay there. Our number one concern: how are the buses? Our last trip we stayed at the Dolphin and LOVED being able to walk to Epcot and MGM. How long of a bus ride is it to MK and Epcot? Thanks!!

 

[DisneyMim]

I can answer some of your questions, but you will get tons more peple on the DVC board. We've been members since OKW opened in 1991 and have stayed there too many times to count. We love it. OKW is a very relaxing resort, and the huge villas are, for us, the number one pro. We always rent a car, so I can't help much with the buses. Some people say it isn't bad. IMHO OKW is best with a car. We know the WDW roads so well now that it takes no time at all to go from place to place, and we love being able to get in our car and just GO to wherever we want. One of the cons that some people mention is that there is no slide at the pool at OKW. This has never bothered us, but if you really want a slide it may not be your "cup of tea". If you really liked being able to walk to Epcot and MGM I would suggest that you stay at BWV. OKW has the atmosphere of a Florida community. There isn't as many dining options there as other resorts. You really need a car to get to anywhere real quick. This is just my opinion. We love OKW and think of it as a second home, but I personally wouldn't think of staying there without a car.

Happy Planning!!!

 

[AZKathy]

We stay at OKW all the time. We love the layed back atmosphere and the beauty of the resort. One real nice thing is that each villa has it's own little porch or balcony with lovely views of the golf course/waterways.

We have done both renting a car and not. The only time I felt any problem with the bus system is when it was 110 degrees in the shade with that much humidity after a long day in the parks; buses do not seem to come as quick when you are totally miserable! Honestly, we have not run into problems with the bus system but I have read other complaints about them. Last year, we rented a car for the entire stay and a few days into it, we felt it was easier to take the buses especially to MK since the parking lot is a tram and monorail ride away from MK. We used the car specifically for resort visiting and early morning character dining.

It is not like the Dolphin with a short ride/walk to either park. There is only one restaraunt and a few snack shacks. If you are used to the ease of getting to the studios or Epcot or dining, I agree BWV may be a better choice.

The villas are the biggest of the DVC resorts. It has a great room with fully equipted kitchen and appliances. The one bedroom and up has washer/dryer and a fantastic jacuzzi bath tub in the master bath.

You will love the amenities this resort offers for your stay. I have a hard time doing a regular hotel room for other vacations! We do love OKW!