We just returned Monday from a wonderful 8 day stay at MVC Ko Olina Beach Club. While there we were able to daily watch the progress on Aulani. All I can say is WOW! Aulani is impressive. While the JW Marriott and Ko Olina are beautiful, they just can't compare to what Disney has done. As usual, Disney's craftsmanship and attention to detail go above and beyond.
The rooms are unreal as well. Again, it's the little things, like the surfing Mickey lamps, and the hidden Mickey's in the what appear to be traditional Hawaiian quilts. The layout is different from the current properties. The living room in the 1 bdrm has a pull down bed from under the TV. Think Disney Cruise Line upper bunk, but lower on the wall. Finally, a table in the kitchen area that will comfortably seat 5 or 6. The guide pointed out to us there was room for a double air mattress, but I can't imagine 7 people sharing one bath! The lockout/studio was lovely and roomy as well.
We have been owners at Ko Olina since 2005, and can't believe the changes that have occurred in the last 2 years. There is now a small shopping area directly across from Aulani that has a ABC/Country Market store. Typical resort prices, but the adult beverage selection was incredible and the prices on these quite reasonable. They also had a large deli section serving breakfast, and lunch/dinner choices. Three restaurants have opened there as well, a reasonably priced Mexican, an ice cream/tea parlor, and a typical Hawaiian Plate Lunch with an impressive selection for very reasonable prices. (Most of the construction workers ate lunch here.) This was a welcome addition to the area as there are finally reasonably priced food options within walking distance.
As an added Disney bonus for us, the Black Pearl is currently anchored in the Ko Olina marina. Was a nice Disney fix for us Disney nuts.
For any of you who will be calling Aulani home, I say Aloha and your Pau Hana time will be all good!
The rooms are unreal as well. Again, it's the little things, like the surfing Mickey lamps, and the hidden Mickey's in the what appear to be traditional Hawaiian quilts. The layout is different from the current properties. The living room in the 1 bdrm has a pull down bed from under the TV. Think Disney Cruise Line upper bunk, but lower on the wall. Finally, a table in the kitchen area that will comfortably seat 5 or 6. The guide pointed out to us there was room for a double air mattress, but I can't imagine 7 people sharing one bath! The lockout/studio was lovely and roomy as well.
We have been owners at Ko Olina since 2005, and can't believe the changes that have occurred in the last 2 years. There is now a small shopping area directly across from Aulani that has a ABC/Country Market store. Typical resort prices, but the adult beverage selection was incredible and the prices on these quite reasonable. They also had a large deli section serving breakfast, and lunch/dinner choices. Three restaurants have opened there as well, a reasonably priced Mexican, an ice cream/tea parlor, and a typical Hawaiian Plate Lunch with an impressive selection for very reasonable prices. (Most of the construction workers ate lunch here.) This was a welcome addition to the area as there are finally reasonably priced food options within walking distance.
As an added Disney bonus for us, the Black Pearl is currently anchored in the Ko Olina marina. Was a nice Disney fix for us Disney nuts.
For any of you who will be calling Aulani home, I say Aloha and your Pau Hana time will be all good!
Can't wait for our first trip in June 2012 
