Just back from visiting all DVC resorts

[LadyTrampScamp&Angel]

Well, all of the WDW ones!

I just came back from a trip to WDW where I took my aunt to see all the DVC resorts. She's going to join (I'm a good salesperson!), the only problem was where . She's a widow, wants to be able to bring her daughter and grandchildren, and even me when I'm out of points! Family get togethers , that kind of thing.

We visited every resort, saw the BWV models at the BW, the Saratoga and AKV models at SSR. It became a joke with us because every resort we walked into and around was "Wow, this is so beautiful, I just love it", then the next resort "Wow, this is so beautiful . . ." and on and on. I do think they are all special in their own way.

A new consideration I see when travelling with someone older - elevators and accessibility to parks. We stayed at OKW, which I think the pictures of rooms I've seen really don't give them justice. However, I don't now think it's a good option for older folks who might have a problem with stairs. My aunt wasn't feeling well the day we checked in and I gave up my water view room that would have been available at 4pm for any studio that was ready at 9am. We ended up with 4926, which was all fine except that on the other side of the landscape is Buena Vista Drive (I think that's the name) so we did get some traffic noise. It was on the second floor and had a view of trees and golf course from the balcony. Got to see a one bedroom and a grand villa while we were there - very nice. I took pics I'll try to post when I get caught up on everything at home. DA wanted to see the Grand Villa for those family reunions.

Had dinner at the Turf Club one evening, nice setting at the boat dock there and the meal was wonderful. SSR seems quite peaceful for such a large resort and the pool area, love the rocks and theme there. There is definately something to be said for the condo type resorts. Being able to park outside your building is an great perk.

Then again, the BCV has the pool and pretty close parking also. BWV have wonderful views and I think it's also so pretty. My home, VWL, just touches my heart - love the comfy, homey feel. AKV's are unique and we had a just awesome dinner in the Capetown Room at Jiko Great restaurants there.

In the end my aunt is going to purchase at BLT. Being a little older she loves the proximity to the Magic Kingdom and fortunately can afford the higher points there. Personally, I don't think you can go wrong with any of them!

Just a little review, will try to get those pics up, probably after the weekend.

 

[vandy]

Thanks for the report. Sometimes we have just as much fun visiting the other resorts as doing anything else! Best wishes to your aunt in trying to decide!

 

[westjones]

I think the BLT resort will be a wondeful choice. We own at BCVs and just love walking over to Epcot and the Disney Studios, but to be able to walk to Magic Kingdom would be really nice. Especially if that is where she enjoys going.

We are thinking that once our kids are grown, we will probably like going to the Wine & Food Fest at Epcot in the Fall, and for that BWV and BCVs work best because you can talk over to it (and we enjoy the music performances at Epcot). To be honest, without the kids with us, we probably won't spend a whole lot of time at MK. BUT the resorts around BLTs will have wonderful restaurants, and you can see the fireworks from the rooftop, and well, I don't think you can go wrong either way. It is all a matter of what you prefer.

To be honest, we bought at BCVs because it was what they were selling at the time we bought (it wasn't even open then--$70 a point then), but we love it over by Epcot, so it has worked out for us.

You guys will have some wonderful trips together as a family.

DJ

 

[itsreally4mommy]

How funny she purchased at the one that you didn't see, LOL. I am jealous, wishing I had a sweet family connection for such things.

 

[LadyTrampScamp&Angel]

Hi again,

It is kinda funny that where she wants to be is the one place we couldn't actually see models or rooms But she seems to be thinking about where the family would want to be, the kids mainly and she loves the idea of being able to see the MK fireworks from her room. We were at Wishes one night and headed out just before it was over to beat the crowd. She sees the advantage in being able to walk back, if you want, to BLT. She and I really like EPCOT but she thinks being able to take the monorail over there will work. I thought she'd pick BCV or BWV but she's sold on BLt. We stood out on that deck at the CR and looked BLT over. She thinks that lounge on the top will be revolving with the circular design - could be?

She's already spoken to her (our) guide and we've been told that BLT will go on sale to the general public on Oct 5. Maybe she'll get her name in the fountain!

We're so happy to do this for our family, we are close but don't live in the same part of the country - haven't for about 17 years I think. This way we can all meet up at WDW

Thanks for the nice thought and wishes!