Grandparents first trip....Need Resort Advice!

[GoofItUp]

I am taking my grandparents to Disney for their first-ever trip Jan 12-17, 2006, and have been working on deciding where to stay. I'm a bit concerned that there is very limited availability in the DTD hotels. Not that I particularly want to stay at those, but I'm starting to wonder if that is a crowded weekend or something. It is MLK weekend...will that have an effect?

Also, where would your recommendation be to stay for this group? (Me, DH, my mom, and her parents) I have been searching for two rooms, but would certainly consider one if we could have a suite or something to divide the space. I don't want to spend a fortune on this, but also want to make this a nice trip for them. I would LOVE to stay at the Swan or Dolphin (again) because of the great location, but their rack rate is way out of the price range. **Hoping for a good deal!**

 

[mrsR123]

Have you considered renting points from a DVC member? You could poke around the rent/trade board. It's much cheaper than rack rates, and you would have lots of flexible room.

 

[susy]

In January, the theming at the WL would be---- WOW!!!!!!

 

[Gooofy-Blade]

IMO "older" guests definitely prefer WL based on theming, decor, and just the entire concept. Simply rocking in front of the grand fireplace is a thrill for anyone. Kind of sounds "age prejudice" doesn't it? Of course I am rather young and love every aspect of WL.

 

[GoofItUp]

Hmmm....I hadn't really thought about the WL. Does it have rooms that will accomodate 5 people or would we have to get 2 rooms?

I'll check out the DVC rent/trade board, too. I've not really considered this because it looks confusing. I'm one of those that has a knack for messing things up (see login name). But, I'll read up and see if I get the courage to try it.

 

[philaround]

From what I have read here MLK weekend can be busier than other weekends in January.

 

[Eeyore2003]

I really think a 2 bedroom villa at the Boardwalk would be really nice. Off season, MK closes early, but the Boardwalk and EPCOT stay open. MGM and EPCOT are both only a boat ride away and very convenient. It's very nice and relaxed. Also, the Boardwalk is very adult and quiet and the villas are wonderful. Check the Rent/Trade Board like the others have mentioned and see what you think.

 

[Gary M]

DW and I are grandparents and really like the WL. To check WL info go to http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/faq_wl.htm Go to http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/faq_wlv.htm for the WL Villas.

There may be a good chance that you can get AP room rates for your travel dates. As of now, only one member of your group needs an AP and you can reserve up to 3 rooms on that one AP. You can reserve the rooms before you get your pass, you just need to have the AP when you check in. Last winter we paid about $135(tax inc.) per night for the woods view room at the WL with the AP room discount. The standard room would be a little less expensive.

For discounts keep and eye on these boards and also www.mousesavers.com

You can always make reservations and change to another resort later when the discounts hopefully come out or apply the discount to your reservations. All this is based on if AP room rates are available.

 

[jbthi]

I think it would be good to check about renting points from a DVC member. You can get a villa where you will have your kitchen and a w/d.

I am a grandmother (soon to be great-grandmother) and I love the BWV or BCV. It's great to be able to walk to Epcot or MGM. I love having all the restaurants and activities on the boardwalk.