Is AKL Concierge really worth it?

[tamu91]

Back from WDW two weeks ago and already begun planning our next trip back Doesn't everyone?
We're DVC members but I think we might spend a couple of days @ AKL. My kids love seeing the animals and I think it would be fun.
Anyway, I've been reading about AKL and I'd like to know from you AKL pros out there if the concierge level is worth the extra $100/night. What extra perks to you get over the regular deluxe room? And are all savanah view rooms considered Deluxe?

Thanks

 

[Deb & Bill]

There are some savannah rooms that are not deluxe.

Best perk is the chance to go on the Sunrise Safari.

 

[ducklite]

Worth it is too subjective. If you have no problem paying for an elevated level of service and some amenities that do not economically equal the added cost, then sure. Otherwise you'd probably be happier in a savannah view room.

Anne

 

[johnsonet]

I highly recommend AKL Concierge. The itinerary planners are wonderful. You may email them once you've booked your concierge room and they can begin helping you with your plans.
They make advance dining reservations for you, book tours for you (the Segway Tour, for example!), make a note of your room requests (for me that means non-smoking, Arusha Savannah view, Zebra Trail);
They will arrange to have gifts waiting in the room to surprise those you are traveling with, if you wish. All they need is your credit number and your requests or ideas. I have had a character costume waiting for my daughter; an AKL t-shirt and Disney Dollars waiting for my dad (he likes to shop ), and a gift certificate to the Zahanati Fitness Center for an hour-long massage waiting for my mom. I've also had binoculars, Safari Minnie and Disney-themed chocolates waiting for my daughter. The concierge planners take care of all of this and are used to it and very good at it, in my experience. They are very festive.
In addition to these services before your trip, you will have the beautiful Kilimanjaro Club to enjoy during your stay. It is a very relaxing lounge with wonderful seating areas and yummy snacks and beverages throughout the day. Continental breakfast every morning - and the most amazing coffee machine - plus wine and beer in the evenings along with an appetizer or two and then desserts and cordials later in the evening. The lounge staff can help you with last-minute requests and, really, anything. They are pretty great.
I LOVE AKL Concierge and highly recommend it! I'll be staying on the concierge level there for the 3d time in July
Good luck!

 

[tamu91]

I guess we're used to making our own plans and don't usually visit WDW during special occasions so concierge level might not be worth it. Although it does sound special and we might try to do it at least once.
Anyone has any pictures of the AKL concierge lounge?

 

[Yak]

Sometimes, it's not about the money. If you can understand that comment, then it's worth it. Otherwise no.

 

[NCombs]

My family of 5 would have to stay in a Savannah View Deluxe room. The Deluxe refers to the fact it is a bit larger and has a day bed, right? I assume it is not concierge. Correct?

 

[Yak]

My family of 5 would have to stay in a Savannah View Deluxe room. The Deluxe refers to the fact it is a bit larger and has a day bed, right? I assume it is not concierge. Correct?

All concierge rooms are deluxe or better. However, not all deluxe rooms are concierge. Your assumption is likely correct.

 

[TammiMcMan]

I guess we're used to making our own plans and don't usually visit WDW during special occasions so concierge level might not be worth it. Although it does sound special and we might try to do it at least once. Anyone have any pictures of the AKL concierge lounge?

Here is a site that has some still photo's and 360 degree views, AKL Pictures .

Being "worth it" is a very subjective term. A lot of people don't think a deluxe resort is worth paying more money for. The higher level of service offered by concierge covers many areas. It starts with pre-planning assistance. You're still the one deciding on where you'd like to eat, or what tours you'd like to do, it's just that instead of having to set your alarm clock for 6:57am on the 90th day to score a princess breakfast or Illuminations cruise you simply send one e-mail to the pre-planning staff and they'll enter all your requests into the computer. When the applicable window dates open up, your requests are changed over to confirmed just like magic.

Want some special gifts sitting in the room upon arrival, they'll do that too. Upon arrival, you have private registration up in the lounge. Not a bad way to start a vacation. CM staff are on duty daily from 7am-10pm to assist you with any last minute changes or requests. Automatic turn down service nightly and weekday newspaper delivery. A comfortable lounge to relax in with a variety of food offerings. You can't call it a meal replacement plan, but it's nice for snacking or a glass of wine in the evening. With AKL concierge, you also have the opportunity to book either a sunrise or sunset safari. These are exclusive to AKL concierge guests.

Worth it? Yes for some and no for others. You can make the phone calls and take care of your PS's all on your own. You can request turn down service and even use the Lodge guest services concierge for all your needs while on site.

For me personally, I like the services offered. I'm always the one taking care of my family day to day. I figure, when we go on vacation, here's my opportunity to have someone else take care of me for a change. I don't mind paying the extra for all that pampering. That's just me though.

 

[twinmomplus2new]

I just today booked my third AKL club level stay. There is nothing more relaxing to me than to meander up to the Lounge get the kids breakfast without waiting in line at the Mara. ( A Huge, Huge plus for me)

I am going with 13 assorted family members later in the week, But the first nights will be spent at AKL. Hanging out and enjoying the resort. ANd that includes the comfort and ease of having the lounge.