HH questions

[slindamood]

We are planning a first trip to HH in March 2006. The airfares are good, so I will chance it and buy before the 7 month HH window opens (perhaps).

Has anyone had success at the 7 month window for mid - March (arr March 18, but Easter is late this year).

I can get the same air fare to Savannah and Hilton Head. How convenient are each of these?

Do we need a car? We plan to rent bikes and do lots of cycling in the area, so will have some transportation by bike.

Are the studios OK for 2 people? Any advice?

Thanks much.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Mid-March is when we've gone for the last 3 years. I think a studio would be OK, but let me warn you, HHI is where DH and I first tried a 1 BR, and for us, the saying is true "Once you've tried a 1 BR, you won't go back!" And unfortunately, the only studio we tried at HH was after spending 4 nights in a 1 BR, so it's kind of hard to be objective. Last year we did what you're thinking of-bought our airfare before the 7 month window opened, and it worked out OK. We've always been successful at 7 months for a 1 BR or studio. Once we even changed from a studio to a 1 BR 2 months in advance (all except that last night). I'd recommend a car, for getting to the resort and getting around at night. There's virtually no lighting, and in March, it's dark by 6:00 or so, so if you go out for dinner, you'll need a car. If both Savannah and HH airports are the same to fly into, check rental car rates at each. HH is so much more convenient, but Savannah is really a straight shot and very easy to get in and out of. Right now we're looking for reasonable airfare for our March, 2006 trip. I don't consider $500 pp reasonable, but DH loves HH so much he just said "One way or another, we'll get there!" So I guess we'll see ya there!

 

[Johnnie Fedora]

We also frequent HH in the off season. You should be fine booking at 7 months. Mid March is likely to be prior to most spring breaks, and Easter is late in 2006. If you have the points, I would recommend a 1-BR (17/night S-Th). We find at HH we spend more time hanging around the unit/resort and really enjoy the extra space, especially if the weather is rainy. There is no on-site resaruant so we do cook at HH, and prefer the 1/2-BR full kitchen. The island is quieter during March and there are fewer activities going on. We still enjoy the beach on sunny days, and the kids still splash in the ocean in spite of the cool water temps. We go swimming a lot, and use the hot tub frequently, go bike riding, mini-golf, etc. Expect 50's-70's for temps.

Happy planning.

 

[Jenn]

We fly into Savannah, mainly because the HH airport seems to only take the little planes. Check your plane size before booking if that is an issue for you. We fly US Air from Boston to Savannah, with a layover in Charlotte. The Charlotte to HH flights are on planes that hold about 30 people and I am not comfortable with that small of a plane.

Last year we paid $238 PP, this year we snagged $138! Savannah is about a 45 minute ride to the resort.

 

[TW1]

Do we need a car? We plan to rent bikes and do lots of cycling in the area, so will have some transportation by bike.
Are the studios OK for 2 people?

If you've stayed in other studios, except for the OKW's 2 bed design, they are the same. I believe 2 adults should be fine in a studio.

Yes, I agree with the others that a car is a very good idea. If it is rainy, you'll tend to do less lounging by the pools, and more exploring on the island. Also with a car, a side trip to Savannah would be great in March.

We hope to be there as well next March. Enjoy!

 

[Doctor P]

Also, HH studios are by far the biggest of any DVC resort, including OKW. They are nearly 500 square feet as I recall.

 

[slindamood]

Thanks everyone for the great information and advice.

We are so excited about going to HH - we like the idea of easy going and laid back. We have printed a map of bike trails from the web and will go ahead and buy the air tickets (but no way will we get a price like Jenn's). We will rent a car, but will decide on unit size when time to book (all a trade off). Had not thought of a day trip to Savannah, but now that is part of the plans.

It is also good to hear from so many who have been there in mid-March. Hope to see you there next year!