CSR or AKL

[Iri920]

So as of right now I'm schedule to check in at AKL next week. We took AKL because it was pretty much the only thing available for the dates we wanted, had to change them last minute we originally had PoP booked. Well I went on the Disney website for the heck of it and now they have a standard room at CSR available. I don't know what to do! I know I'll have to pay a penalty, but I would still be saving money. On the other hand I was starting to get excited about staying at AKL and everything is already paid off. I have stayed at CSR before and I really liked it, but maybe I should try something different. If it matters we'll be traveling with a 2 and 1 year old. Which one would you pick?

 

[Buzz2001]

I love CSR and think it offers everything you could want in a vacation resort. I believe it has a better pool too. But AKL is a deluxe so it will depend on your budget and if you want interior hallways and queen beds.

 

[Artemus]

What type of AKL room did you get? If Savanah view, ask for Arusha Savanah, Zebra Trail. Then I would vote AKL hands down. If you plan some resort time, you will enjoy this resort. If you are spending your time at the Parks, you will miss some of the value of AKL. I do not know what the value of a standard view room would be like. But I do know there are several good "common area" viewing points for the savanahs. But Savanah view balcony is the way to go at AKL IMHO.

Artemus

 

[Jambo!424]

Although I really like CSR, I would definitely say stay with AKL. AKL is my favorite resort. It has such a great atmosphere and there are always lots of things going on. You won't be disappointed!

 

[abirdd]

Since June 2006, we have stayed twice at the AKL and 3 times at CSR. In fact, we are headed back to CSR in December of this year.

Although I really enjoyed the atmosphere and decor of the AKL, we spend most of our time in the parks - and I felt for the extra money, we did not spend enough time at the resort to truly enjoy. My DH loved AKL, but felt with our little guy (who is just now 18 months) the buses were too long in getting to the parks. That can be hard when you're trying to keep a little guy entertained!

Now, CSR - I just love the resort in general. All visits so far have resulted in room upgrades from the kind CM's - and we have so many towel animals on two visits it was insane!! I also much prefer the pool of CSR over AKL. Not to mention I found there were more toddler/young children to be found at CSR - which made for better playing and pool time fun.

No matter which you choose, I think you'll have a great time. Just depends on where you spend most of your time. If your room is you place to sleep, then CSR should do the trick!

 

[yxe dad]

I did a split stay in Nov/Dec 06 and started at AKL, then moved to CSR. That being said, I would stay with the AKL! The rooms are newer, the pool was not as crowded and you have the animals. I liked Boma, Mara, and the pool bar at the lodge but found the Pepper Market over priced(maybe because the portions are too big), and I didn't like the automatic tip at the Pepper Market.
I also found the walk to/from our section to/from the main buildings a little too long with the kids at the end of the evening. It's a great resort but give the AKL a try, it's already paid for.

 

[TaraPA]

I've stayed at both, and loved both. They are both incredibly well-themed resorts. To me it would be a matter of money. If you're saving quite a bit then definitely CSR. If it's under $100 total saved then stick with AKL.

 

[maciemouse]

I just got back today. We stayed one night at CSR and the rest at Poly. Anyway we visited the Animal Kingdom Lodge while we were there. I would keep your reservation for AKL. Don't get me wrong, we liked CSR. But you cannot beat the atmosphere at AKL. My kids, who are 2 and 4, loved visiting this resort. The lobby is stunning. It just gives you a relaxed feeling.

 

[Iri920]

Thanks for the replies and pictures everyone. We've decided to stay with AKL. Right now we have a standard view since they don't have any savannah view, but I'll ask again at check-in and hope they have one. Thanks again.