JAMBO! The UN-official AKL Thread ~ UPDATED(short film/pg 8 & slideshow/pg 12) Part 2

[goin2disneyagain]

just needed a tiny bump to admire my ticker

I don't see your ticker. Did you remove it or am I missing something?

 

[wendypooh]

Give my Jambo tag to Wendypooh!!


I'm just not worthy of the tag anymore. I've changed our February resort. DH and I were talking last night about how "magical" our first trip was and I thought, well I'll call and just get prices on the week we'll be there for rooms at a value, mod, since I know how much AKL is on our ressie. Well it's LESS than 1/2 to stay at a value and I booked All Star Music w/ a request for a king room. DH and I figure that we don't care to go back to the basics, it almost seems fun to think of us staying there w/ out the kids.

We are planning on going next year w/ the kids and staying at AKL that way they can have that experience, it almost takes away some of the guilt about not taking them.

Please don't ban me from this thread, I love you guys. AKL is a dream resort of mine and I think I have a problem w/ spending the extra $ because that's just the penny pincher in me. DH is getting his annual bonus this week and it would more than take care of the trip, I know it sounds crazy but that's just me.

LOL ~~ Hey Karen!!! I DO want my Tag back.......... but not at the expense of yours!!!! It was my own "dumb" fault that I lost mine!!! MAYBE the Tag Fairy will bestow my RED color again............. So, Anyway, you shouldn't worry about not staying at the lodge........ you have to do what is right for your family!!! NO banning from me......... in fact you should come visit the thread more often!!!

 

[Nancyg56]

No one going in December?

That coffee machine thingy-ma-jig at AKL concierge. Does that do Lattes?

Why yes it does. I needed to ask my DD because I had the cappucino, which was soooooo good. I was sad that we chose the Poly in january becasue i loved the CL lounge and a major part of the pleasure was the treat from that amazing machine.

I heard a CM say that it cost $26,000, so I asked my son and he said that he believed that because the one he uses at work was $16,000 and not as nice.

 

[lovespoohbear]

hey akl peeps. to long of a thread to read everything. going to akl in december 17-24. cant wait to be on my own little safari. give me ideas of stuff to do and not to miss while there that i can try and fit into my visit.

 

[tinknme]

Hi Karen I was wondering when you would make it over here! I posted this awhile back, but it has some good info. My TA sent this to me, enjoy!

Magical Resort Guide for Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge
2901 Osceola Parkway
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-1000
Telephone: (407) 938-3000
Fax: (407) 938-4799


Resort Information: If you have ever want to experience an African Safari,
but were hesitant to do it without electricity, running water or indoor
plumbing, then this is the place for you. This is one of the most
incredible and beautiful resorts on Disney property and offers an absolutely
unique experience. Excuse me if I gush in this resort guide, but I cant
say enough wonderful things about this resort. It has something for
everyone.

The resort is built around a savannah, complete with giraffes, zebras,
wildebeest, ostrich and many other animals. You can reserve a room with a
gorgeous Savannah view, which means you will be able to gaze over the
savannah at all those animals from the comfort of your own private balcony.
Whenever we are there we dont want to leave - even to go visit the most
famous theme parks in the world! There are also viewing areas located
around the resort. The sunset savannah lounge is especially relaxing and
enjoyable. Also, dont miss the Arusha rock outdoor viewing area.

The lobby has a three-story wall of windows and is spectacular. Take time
to notice the hand carved African furniture, the African art and the African
music. The theming at this resort is wonderful.

The Savannahs: There are three savannahs found around the resort. The
Arusha Savannah, the Sunset Savannah and the Uzima Savannah. The animals
that are on each savannah vary, but giraffe are present on each savannah.
The animals are out on the Savannah all day, except for a small period of
time when they are taken inside in the afternoon. The animal care staff
uses this time to look over the animals and they also perform routine
maintenance on the Savannahs.

Rooms: There are three different views in the standard size rooms which
sleep 4 plus one child under three in a crib. Standard view rooms have a
view of the parking lots or other public areas. Pool views have a view of
the gorgeous zero-depth entry pool. Finally, Savannah view rooms have a
view of one of the Savannahs; this means you will have your own balcony
where you can sit and enjoy the scenery. Standard rooms can have two queen
beds, one King bed or one queen bed and bunk beds based on availability.
Rooms are furnished with a hand carved African armoire, table and chairs, a
vanity area with two sinks, and separate toilet area. Most rooms have a
balcony or patio. Guest rooms also include an iron and ironing board,
hairdryer, in-room wall safe (to hold money or jewelry), voice mail, and
data port on the phone. Coffee makers and cribs can be requested free of
charge. Refrigerators are in every roomno charge.

Some Deluxe rooms can sleep 5 with the addition of a day bed. Concierge
rooms and suites are also available. Just a note, the Animal Kingdom Lodge
has one of the nicest concierge services on Disney property - definitely
worth it if you are in the mood for a splurge.

Rooms spread out from the main lobby in a curved X pattern so that the
number of Savannah view rooms is optimized. Room locations are broken into
three locations: the Kudu, Zebra, Ostrich, and Giraffe trails.

Check-in time: 3:00 pm
Check-out time: 11:00 am

If you arrive before check-in time or will be staying after check-out time,
the resort will store your luggage free of charge. Its a great way to get
some extra time in the parks or at the resort pool.

**Magical tip: if you would like late check-out, call the front desk the
day before you will check-out, they may be able to extend your check-out
time until 1 pm, based on availability.

Dining:
Full service Restaurant: There are at least 2 table service restaurants
located at each deluxe resort.
Boma is the resorts more casual restaurant. It is a buffet style
restaurant that features foods with an African twist. At dinner, you can
find items like watermelon rind salad, Banana leaf wrapped sea bass,
rotisserie chicken and zebra domes for dessert. But dont worry; there are
choices for all the less adventurous diners in your party. Staples like
prime rib and childrens selections like chicken fingers, spaghetti and
macaroni and cheese are available to everyone. The soups and the desserts
are especially good, and there are quite a few selections for vegetarians as
well.
Breakfast has its own specialties including breakfast breads, pastries,
meats and a special Kenyan pressed coffee. This breakfast is filling and
fun.
Breakfast and dinner are served daily at Boma.
This is quickly becoming one of the most popular resorts on Disney property.

**Magical Tip: Try the soups, try the soups, and try the soups. Did I
mention you should try the soups? They are excellent!

**Magical Tip: If you are eating at Boma for Breakfast, dont miss the
signature juice-an African Frunch. It is a blend of lemonade, and guava,
orange, papaya and pineapple juices.

Jiko is the more formal of the two restaurants. It features expert cooking
in a beautiful atmosphere. It is not stuffy or fussy, but casually elegant.
You will find wonderful meat, poultry, seafood and vegetarian entrées as
well as soups, salads and appetizers. This restaurant also features an
incredible list of African Wines. The servers are trained well and are
happy to help guide you through your dining experience.
This restaurant is open for dinner only.

Counter Service Restaurant: The counter service restaurant, Mara, serves a
variety of food. They have choices that appeal to adults and children, and
healthy options are available too. Look for soups, salads, sandwiches,
desserts and childrens items on the menu. They also have some more
interesting choices. Mara is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Pool Bar: Uzima Springs is the spot to grab a drink by the pool. Choose
from traditional bar offerings or go for one of the yummy specialty drinks.
There are even non-alcoholic specialties for everyone to sample.

Lounge: Victoria Falls is a relaxing spot near a waterfall, and overlooking
Boma. It features mixed drinks, beer, wine and specialty drinks.

Room Service: There is a good room service menu available. Breakfast in
bed, or a special romance package dinner served on your balcony over looking
the savannah may be just the thing to make your stay complete.
Remember that a service fee and gratuity is added to each order, but
breakfast in your room is relaxing and a great way to start the day. Room
service is typically available from 6 am until midnight.

**Magical tip: if you have soda or coffee drinkers, you may save some money
by purchasing a refillable mug. The mugs can be purchased at the resort
and are good for unlimited refills of soda, coffee and iced tea at the
counter service restaurant, Mara, for the length of your stay.
Refillable mugs are available for approximately $12.00 a piece

Recreation:

Pools: The largest resort pool on Disney property is located at the Animal
Kingdom Lodge. Uzima Springs is the name of the pool area, and it is an
expansive zero-depth entry pool surrounded by rock formations. No climbing
down steps or ladders, you can walk right in, just like you would at the
beach.
There is a small wading pool for younger children, and two spas also located
in the pool area. Note that the slide is only open when lifeguards are
present, but the pool is open 24 hours.

Playground: There is a playground located at the resort so the kids can burn
up any extra energy. It is located by the pool area.

Health Club/Spa: Experience rejuvenating spa services including massage,
and more at Zahanati Spa. Your travel counselor will be happy to provide
more information and secure reservations for spa treatments. You can also
work out in the fully-equipped health club or schedule a Personal Training
appointment.

Shopping: Zawadi Marketplace is the spot where you can pick up Disney and
Animal Kingdom Lodge merchandise. They also have a good selection of
African art, knick-knacks, music and clothing.
Sundries and snacks are also available. Dont miss the opportunity to pick
up some African music or crafts. Some times an Africa Artisan is working in
the shop.

Arcade: Pumbas Arcade is located at pool level, near Simbas Clubhouse and
Mara. Its a fun arcade, and a great spot to use up any loose change.

Child Care: There is a child care club available at each of Disneys
Deluxe Resorts except the Boardwalk Inn. At the Animal Kingdom Lodge, you
will find Simbas Clubhouse located at pool level near the arcade. Child
care clubs are open to children of all on-site guests. Children must be
potty trained and between the ages of 4 and 12. Prices vary, and
reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE

Child care can also be provided in-room for children of any age by the Fairy
Godmothers, or Kid's Night Out services. These are not Disney services and
prices and requirements vary. Arrangements can be made by calling:
Fairy Godmothers (407) 969-9847 and toll free 877-611-4314
Kids night out (407) 827-5444

Resort Services:

ATM: There is an ATM located in the lobby. There is a fee charged for most
transactions.

Laundry: Is located near the pool. You might as well enjoy the pool while
you wash your laundry! This is located near the Arcade and Simbas
Clubhouse. There is an area where you can watch TV while you wait for your
laundry.

Transportation:
Busses are also available to take guests directly to the 4 major theme
parks, the water parks and the Downtown Disney/Pleasure Island area. A Bus
Stop is located outside the front entrance in a covered area.
Busses run from about one hour prior to park opening to approximately 1- 2
hours after the last park closes. Downtown Disney/Pleasure Island busses
run until approximately 2 am. You will be given a current transportation
map and schedule when you check-in.
Taxi transportation can also be arranged. There is a fee for this service.
Call bell service from your room or check at the desk in-person.

** Magical tip: If you would like to travel to a destination other than
those listed above (say another Disney Resort) take a bus to the nearest
major theme park, and then transfer to a bus to the specific resort you are
looking for.

Staying Connected
If you need to access the internet while you are on vacation, there is a
data port located in each room. Contact you Internet Service Provider for
local numbers, but be aware that you will incur at least a .75 charge each
time you connect- even for local calls. Check with the front desk of the
hotel to determine the phone charges before making any call.

Bell Services: Full service Bell services are available when you arrive at
the resort. They are happy to help you unload, take your luggage, and
deliver it to your room. Bell services can assist with luggage, help with
valet parking, and provide you with directions
There is also a button on your resort room phone that connects you directly
to bell services. When you are ready to check-out they will be happy to
assist you with your luggage. On your check-out day allow bell services a
minimum of 30 minutes to come and get your luggage. It is normal to tip for
bell services and valet parking.

Parking: Free self-parking is available in a large parking lot at Animal
Kingdom Lodge. Valet parking is also available for approximately $6 per day
(this price does not include gratuity). The charge for valet parking will
be charged to your room.

** Magical Tip: You will only pay for valet parking once per day at the
Walt Disney World resorts. Once paid, you will receive a hang tag for your
vehicle that notes you have paid valet charges on that date. You can then
valet park at any other Disney resort without further charges on that day.

Magical Tips: You will see these tips scattered throughout this guide and
we have included some more great tips right here. These are the tips
assembled by out own team of Disney experts and we want to make sure that
you benefit from our experience

**There are guides at the outdoor viewing areas to answer your questions.
They are very knowledgeable so dont be shy. They are a great resource.

**Make sure you check out the art located throughout the lobby. It is
beautiful and very unique.

**Many of the animals sleep during the day and much more active all night.
This is a great time to watch them. Bring a sweater or jacket for those cool
nights of sitting on your balcony or at Arusha Rock watching the animals

**There is an evening storytelling program at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Join an animated story teller, as he shares folklore, stories and tales.
This usually takes place around the fire pit outside of the resort. Ask for
a schedule at guest services

**There are so many activities that are offered at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Here are just some of the activities that may be offered during your stay:
Horticulture Activity, Animal feedings, Spirit of Africa Art Tour, Animal
Tracking-Arusha Rock , Medallion Crayon Rubbings, Cookie Decorating, Pool
Activities, Children's Arts & Crafts, African Rag Doll Making Culinary
Tour of Africa, The Music of the Savanna, African Games & Crafts, African
Folktales, and Animal Viewing with Night Vision goggles. Maker sure you
look at the back of your resort map when you check-in activities are listed
there.

**Make use of the sunset savannah lounge and overlook. It is a wonderful
spot to see Animals, especially at sunset.

**As a guest of an official Disney Resort be sure to take advantage of the
new early entry program. Each morning one of the 4 theme parks open early
just for resort guests!

**Let family at home know how to reach you - give them the number listed
above and the name of the lead person on your reservation.

**The Walt Disney World Florist offers floral arrangements, snack packages,
and more for delivery to your resort. Visit their website at
www.disneyflorist.com for more information.

**For a friendly awakening, touch wake-up calls on your room phone. If
you have kids with you, let them answer or put the call on speaker phone.

**Hair wraps are available near the pool.

** If your child needs assistance while swimming, ask one of the lifeguards
at the pool for a life vest.

**Leave a credit card imprint when you check-in to the resort - this allows
you to have express check-out which saves you a trip to the front desk on
your last day.
An itemized list of any room charges will be on your room door on check-out
day.

**Guests may have purchases shipped back to their resort, so you dont have
to carry those heavy bags all over the parks. Purchases will be delivered
to the gift shop.

 

[Angel16]

No one going in December?

That coffee machine thingy-ma-jig at AKL concierge. Does that do Lattes?

Cass, We will be there in December. It is turning into a BIG trip. I have many suprised up my sleeve for my huband. Even people showing up that are unexpected.

The capachinno (sic) machine is fantastic. One of our favorite stops in the morning, afternoon and evening. In fact, I could't figure out why I was having trouble sleeping on our last trip. Then it hit me.....I was drinking two Lattes each evening. No wonder I was up animal watching at 3 AM.

Sure wish we could take that maching home.

 

[Angel16]

Wendy, I am so very sorry that your JAMBO WILD BUNCH tag was lost.

There has to be something we can do about that. The Purple tag fairy is a loving and fair fairy. He/She will certainly return you tag magically. Yes, I Do have faith in the wonderous Purple Tag Fairy.

Let's all go to sleep and Wendy's tag will be restored by morning. Please tag fairy.

 

[raven69david]

Can you walk from AKL to the park?

 

[tinknme]

No, you have to ride the bus

Can you walk from AKL to the park?

 

[newholidayx2]

tinknme - Thanks much for all the info

DS14 & I check into the AKL 8/17 for 3 nights. We had tentative plans to attend the DVC party one night and to go to PepperMarket another for dinner. We may just need to stay on AKL property the entire 3 days and not leave! (We already have plans for no WDW parks those days)

 

[raven69david]

No, you have to ride the bus.

Darn, i was trying to avoid that.

 

[tinknme]

It only takes about 5 minutes on the bus

Darn, i was trying to avoid that.

 

[mousebit]

I thought maybe this might be the best thread to ask my question of all you AKL lovers. We hope to stay at AKL for our 2007 trip, but would like to come during our Dec. trip this year just for dinner at Boma and to see the lodge at Christmas time. We'd like to catch the Arusha Rock storyteller as well. Can anyone give me an idea of what time to plan? Is there more than one storytelling session? I already made our ADR at Boma for 6:30p, but don't know if this time will work to do both. THANX for your help!

 

[wendypooh]

Oh I hope something comes out, then maybe I could surpise ds with an upgrade Do you remember when they offered the discounts last year?

Hey Janet......... I didn't realize you were going back in Jan./Feb. '07.
To be honest with you, I just made the reservation for room only. Then, when I saw the discounts come out, I called and had it applied. I truely do not remember when they came out. I want to say it was towards the end of the year? Maybe someone else remembers?? I went to try and check my past post to refresh my memory, but they don't go back that far!!! I think, it might have been around Oct.?? but don't hold me too that!!! So, I've now got a room only booked and I'll just wait and see if something good come out!!! Don't worry, you won't miss it!!! It'll be all over these boards and Mousesavers!!!

 

[John's Mom]

Angel,

Did your son-in-law arrive home yet? Waiting for good news.

Kathy

 

[wendypooh]

Wendy, I am so very sorry that your JAMBO WILD BUNCH tag was lost.

There has to be something we can do about that. The Purple tag fairy is a loving and fair fairy. He/She will certainly return you tag magically. Yes, I Do have faith in the wonderous Purple Tag Fairy.

Let's all go to sleep and Wendy's tag will be restored by morning. Please tag fairy.

Hi Angel!!!! Well, I guess I just have to be a little sweeter to the Purple Tag Fairy!!! LOL

I was just trying to change what it said above my avatar.......... I had those tags from YEARS ago, and they kinda didn't apply anymore............ but, oh well............. Hopefully the wonderous magical fantastic........... PURPLE Tag Fairy will sprinkle some pixie dust my way!!!!!

 

[wendypooh]

I thought maybe this might be the best thread to ask my question of all you AKL lovers. We hope to stay at AKL for our 2007 trip, but would like to come during our Dec. trip this year just for dinner at Boma and to see the lodge at Christmas time. We'd like to catch the Arusha Rock storyteller as well. Can anyone give me an idea of what time to plan? Is there more than one storytelling session? I already made our ADR at Boma for 6:30p, but don't know if this time will work to do both. THANX for your help!

When in '07 is your trip?? I have heard they change the times of the storytelling to coincide with when it gets dark.

 

[Disney8704]

From AKL how long goes it take to get to DTD?

 

[gems_smiling]

From AKL how long goes it take to get to DTD?

Car - about 17 mins
Disney bus - about 23 mins

http://www.ourlaughingplace.com/asp/twiz.asp


31 days till I'm at AKL and i have just found out my friend has had her baby girl Just magic!

 

[wendypooh]

Car - about 17 mins
Disney bus - about 23 mins

http://www.ourlaughingplace.com/asp/twiz.asp


31 days till I'm at AKL and i have just found out my friend has had her baby girl Just magic!

OH, how sweet!!! Congrats for your friend!!!

Me and Lisa (Scoutsmom) are at 31 days too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I guess we'll see you there!!!