First time mom-resort w/ 11 month old?

[Aggiegrl]

I am having the hardest time deciding on a resort for our trip in early November. Can anyone offer their insight and help us decide?

It will be me, DH, MIL, my parents, and our DS who will be 11 months at the time. We are planning on a 2 bedroom villa, but can't decide between BLT MK view and AKV-Kidani Savannah view. DH and I have stayed at AKL and CR before, and like both. Parents and MIL have stayed at neither. This is MIL's first trip to WDW too.

We intend to go to all 4 parks, and don't really have a favorite.

AKV plusses--cheaper, more relaxing theme, we like the restaurants at AKL, possibly watch animals from balcony during DS's afternoon nap

AKV minuses--possibly long walk to room, long ride to MK, counter service far away in AKL

BLT plusses--walk to MK, resort isn't so spread out, watch fireworks from balcony during DS's early bedtime.

BLT minuses--less "resort like" (MK view also overlooks parking), more expensive, buses to AK and DHS make multiple stops

I've never had an 11 month old before, so I'm not sure which is going to be better for us! Experienced parents, please help this first time mom.

Edited to add--price difference is $600 more for BLT

 

[Fall1]

I would pick AKV I think, mostly because you said you don't have a favorite park. It's a toss up really.

I think if you were going to spend tons of time at MK, I'd choose BLT, but if you think you'll do all the parks equally, then it won't really matter.

 

[katied]

With DS at 13 months we spent the most time at MK, and second most at Epcot. Because of that, I would recommend BLT. It's so easy to walk to MK and not have to collapse a stroller. Same for taking the monorail to Epcot.

Also, if you want to take a break, the park is so close to the resort, that you don't have to worry about disturbing a sleeping child in the stroller to get back.

In fact, after so many trips with DS young (6 mo, 8 mo, 13 mo, 18 mo, 20 mo, and most recently 30 mo) we bought into BLT as soon as it was available for sale to enjoy the convenience of staying there with little ones. We're already DVC members (at BWV) but wanted the convenience of BLT when kids are little.

 

[designermv]

I would also pick BLT solely for the fact that it is a monorail resort. Having easy access back to your room for rest/nap time via foot or monorail is priceless when you have a little one! We stayed at WL for my daughter's first trip at age 2, and we absolutely loved being able to catch the boat back for a break. And you will be able to see the fireworks at night even if your babe has gone to sleep. I would think your MIL and parents would like the options afforded to them by being on the monorail as well.

Good luck deciding, and have fun!!