Just back from VWL, random SSR thoughts.

[Geyser Gazer]

Had another great stay at VWL, this definately is the place that "does it" for us. We love the total grand wilderness theming immersion that takes place even before you hit the entrance gate. We were on the ground floor for the first time, thought we might not like it as well but it was fine. We went to PI for the first time in years, partially to look accross the lake at SSR. We enjoyed the Adventurers Club and the Comedy Warehouse over loud music/dancing. (must be getting older). We personally felt that the nightly music and lighting would detract from the laid back theming of SSR and spoke with a few guides in this regards. As Doc has stated earlier, DVC is fully aware of these concerns and has been working with acoustical engineers regarding the postioning and insulating of the buildings. In addition, after looking at the map that Doc posted eariler, only the first 4 buildings are directly accross the lake, with the remaining 8 planned around a smaller lake in a likely quieter area. It would be nice if one could eventually choose either the more active fireworks/music/DD view or the less excitiing, but quieter area to the northwest. We are considering an add on here despite knowing that our heart is at the Wilderness Lodge. Yes, a 50 year contract forces us to consider our mortality...but what a way to go.
-Ron.

 

[RoutemanDan]

Looking forward to welcoming you home again! As you can see by my sig,I think they compliment one another nicely.

 

[stacy6552]

I have stayed across from DTD twice. Once years ago in the treehouse villas (where SSR is being built) and last spring at the Wyndham Palace (aweful, dont ever go there my friends). Niether time was there any noise from DTD. It doesnt worry us at all.

 

[RoutemanDan]

Originally posted by stacy6552
I have stayed across from DTD twice. Once years ago in the treehouse villas (where SSR is being built) ......l.

The treehouse villas are further down and still there.SSR is being built where the townhouses once stood.

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Welcome home! We're staying at VWL for our first DVC trip! Glad you loved the place!

I'd definetly like to have the DTD view at SSR sometime!

 

[Maistre Gracey]

Thanx for the report, Geyser Gazer! I agree with your comments on VWL, and I'm not sure any place will rival it.

 

[KarenB]

AAhhhhhhh.....I know what you mean about VWL. It is just "us." We really enjoy staying at all the other resorts, but WL is in our hearts!

Karen

 

[tiggerguy2000]

I also like the Wilderness Lodge Villas and it's my first home resort.Im staying at the WLV in december while my guests will be at the BCV.
tiggerguy2000

 

[nickglover]

To everyone who loves VWL, I highly recommend a stay at the Grand Californian sometime. It is also a beautiful hotel with the same theme - a little different, though, since the lake is replaced by California Adventure, but it is a beautiful retreat right in the middle of two excellent amusement parks.

One day I hope to visit the Sequoia Lodge near Paris!

 

[SimbaNoodle]

I've never stayed at the lodge yet, but I love to eat at Whispering Canyon. I also think the lounge/bar is great. Make a real nice drink. Just did an add-on at SSR for 100 points. Hopefully that will be enough.

Have a great Disney day.

 

[disneymon]

we are thinking of driving from upstate ny to hh then on to wlv next summer. glad to hear so many good thoughts about wlv. we think that we will enjoy it because we love hh. our home resorts are bw and bcv. we are looking for something a little different for next summer. can't wait to stay there.

 

[Mooobooks]

Yes, if you go to Disneyland in California, and you like the Wilderness Lodge, by all means stay at The Grand Californian. T'aint cheap, but if you buy an Annual Pass you get really discounted room rates AND tons more discounts in virtually every shop and restaurant (the antithesis of the situation in Florida, where you'd be hard pressed to find an AP discount in shops and restaurants--at least the ones we eat in).
However, you should know that while everything you see at The Wilderness Lodge is what it's supposed to be (the wood is real wood, etc.), the Grand Californian appears to be made entirely of some composite, like plastic. Knock on some of the wood next time you're out there. It looks perfect, though, and the ambience of the place is top notch. It is Disneyland's version of The Grand Californian, so it's definitely a notch above The Wilderness Lodge is service and amenities.

 

[Dizzie]

I must fit right in with this crowd! We are staying at our VWL home in 2 weeks for the first time and looking at adding on at SSR. I'm trying to decide how many more points I "need". And I'm planning a trip to CA in Feb so I was just looking at the Grand California today.

 

[skorpie]

If not for the VWL, we would not be DVC owners! My DH wouldn't have purchased anywhere else! BTW, we'll be there again this Dec 28-Jan 2nd!

 

[jimmytammy]

Ah yes, WLV, Home sweet Home!!

 

[arminnie]

I love the Grand Californian so I know that I would really like VWL.

 

[Synonymous]

Mooo, I love VWL too, but alot of what you see is "Disney wood" and "Disney rock." Take the Lodge tour sometime- it's really fascinating.