Just back from AKL (after moving from BWI!!)

[grumpyandbashful]

DD 16 and I just returned from a great stay at AKL. We stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel 2 nights first for front of the line access at Universal. Had planned to try the Boardwalk Inn for the first time since we love slipping in and out of Epcot, but we really didn't like it there (just not our "cup of tea" plus a couple of snags there, like them losing my tote bag with cell phone, all trip documents, etc. until late the first night), so we asked to be moved to the AKL, which is our favorite resort, and were able to move the next day. We checked the Beach Club first, but they only had smoking rooms left , so AKL it was. We had to call CRO to make sure we could get a room with an AP rate at the AKL, then "get permission" from BWI to move, but it all worked out.
We walked into the AKL the next morning and were so happy to be at our favorite place. Asked for and got a great room on Zebra Trail looking at Arusha Savannah.
AKL was quite full and hopping, including the pool, Mara, etc., but still relaxing after hot and crowded days in the parks. (Note to self: NEVER AGAIN IN PEAK SUMMER!). Staff was friendly as usual. Room was always made up by 2 or so when we got back from the parks. No complaints!
We had a rental car, which is really a plus at the AKL if you know your way around Disney and like to visit other resorts, DTD, etc., but for the neophyte just use their transportation and relax!

 

[lina777]

Thanks for the report, did you just pay the difference between the two resort. Isn't Animal Kingdom Lodge less money than BWI? I guess unless you went for the savanah view room.

 

[grumpyandbashful]

They just forwarded our deposit on to the AKL, and even though our room there was slightly less than BWI (205 savannah view AKL vs. 219/night standard view BWI - both with an AP discount), we didn't have to pay the difference in price.
The manager at the BWI was really nice, and didn't want to see us go - I kept telling him not to take it personally, it just wasn't our style at the BWI.
Yes, we opted for savannah view, although we could have gone cheaper with pool or standard view. Savannah view is really peaceful at the AKL!

 

[lina777]

Thanks for clarfying. Glad you had a great stay at AKL! Sorry can I ask you why it was your cup of tea?