Help me choose

[sillyguys]

I'm going to Disney in May 2006 with my wife and two DD's, ages 3 1/2 and 6 months. We're going to rent points in a studio in either VWL or BCV. Which do you think would be a better choice for kids of that age. Granted, we'll spend most of our time in MK, but we also love the BW area. We're torn. I would appreciate any input about the pros and cons of each resort. Thanks for your help.

 

[tjkraz]

All Disney resorts are good for kids. BCV has the larger pool complex, but that may be a curse with children as young as yours are. The pool is so big that you really need to be with the kids at all times.

IMO, I'd largely base the decision on the theming of the resort--which appeals to you more.

Note that VWL and BCV only have about 130 and 210 rooms respectively, only a fraction of which are studios. If you want to rent points to stay at either, I'd suggest starting the process now.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Your children are very young, so you will probably spend most of your time at the Magic Kingdom. I would go for VWL because of that fact.

 

[Granny]

You're going to be needing those afternoon naps for the little ones...and the ability to get back to the resort quickly for the unexpected meltdowns.

I'd pick VWL because you'll probably spend more time at MK than anywhere else. DAK is equally inconvenient from all DVC resorts. And while MGM and EPCOT are within walking distance from BWV and BCV, I'm not sure if you'll be in those parks enough to let that sway your decision.

VWL has a nice kiddie pool and a peaceful view of woods during those naps. It also has kid friendly activities such as the afternoon duck races and the evening Electrical Water Pageant (if the kids can last that long into the night).

Of course, BWV has Community Hall but your little ones are too young to really enjoy that.

You can't go wrong, but since you asked, I'd go with VWL. And book it right at the 7 month mark!

 

[sillyguys]

Thanks Granny. I'm leaning towards VWL, but the wife is leaning toward BCV. We'll see who wins out.

 

[byoung]

Let us know who wins out? Good Luck And have a great vacation.

 

[lisareniff]

For a 3.5 yo the sandbar area in Storm-along Bay is great. What three year old doesn't like to play in the sand? The water in that section does not get very deep (2ft?) at the deepest. And there are shady areas to sit with your 6 month old as well. So if the pool is a big factor, BCV might win.

When we were at BCV we would do our main MK touring in the morning til early afternoon, come back for a rest and then walk to Epcot or MGM for a little park action, dinner and fireworks, with the exception of one day we reversed it for Spectro/Wishes.

 

[JimC]

VWL for its proximity to MK.

 

[Granny]

For a 3.5 yo the sandbar area in Storm-along Bay is great. What three year old doesn't like to play in the sand? The water in that section does not get very deep (2ft?) at the deepest. And there are shady areas to sit with your 6 month old as well. So if the pool is a big factor, BCV might win.

For what it's worth, WL/VWL also has a small beach. My girls spent many hours there when they were younger. Of course, it's not part of a pool so they couldn't go swim in the water while they were on the beach. But it was only a few yards or so to the outside "pool shower" and then into the main pool.

Thanks Granny. I'm leaning towards VWL, but the wife is leaning toward BCV. We'll see who wins out.

Yes, you are earning your username here. You'll have a great time at BCV!!

 

[littlestar]

I vote VWL for it being close to the Magic Kingdom. You're only a 10 minute boat ride or a 5 minute bus ride away to the Magic Kingdom. Save the BCV for when they are older. All the rocking chairs at the lodge are nice for rocking babies to sleep, too

You'll like being able to sneak back to the resort quickly for those afternoon naps. Also, the beach and baby pools are great for the little ones. The nightly parade on Bay Lake in front of the lodge would be fun for the kids to see also.

You better book early. VWL is the smallest DVC resort and Beach Club is right behind it. Don't wait or you may lose out for either one.