Just returned from WL and AKL

[Danimb3]

We just returned from our trip at the WL and AKL. I have received so much great information on the boards that helped make this trip so wonderful. So, thank you to all.

We were at WL Woods View with a nice view of the fireworks from Nov 14-19. It was our first time at WL and I can see why so many love this resort. It is beautiful (even more so because of the Christmas decorations), the pool is great, and the CMs were all very friendly. The rooms were a bit smaller than I like, but it was still comfortable. We were surprised with a little Disney Magic on our first full day there. While at the pool for a quick swim before going up to our room for the fireworks show, we were approached by a CM who had a "magical moment" for us. Someone had canceled their fireworks cruise, but the boat was all ready, so would we like to go. We only had 15 minutes to go. Well, we literally ran to our room, changed clothes, and ran to the boat dock. This was truly a magical evening. We had a front row seat for Wishes. It was so impressive that they actually came and seeked us out instead of just sitting back and relaxing--considering that they were still being payed by the original party. I believe this cruise runs $120. I would recommend it. Next time, we plan on booking it.

On the 19th, we switched resorts and stayed at AKL Concierge. We decided on this stay only a few weeks before we left and I am so glad that we did. I was very impressed with the entire experience. The only downside I see to the AKL is that it is so removed. However, it worked perfectly for us because at the end of our stay, we were done with the parks. We spent our time enjoying the resort (they have great activities for the kids), swimming, and watching the animals. Our room was on the Kudu Trail overlooking the Arusha. We had an amazing view of the animals. Although next time, I will request the Zebra Trail with the view of the Arusha to minimize the walk to the pool. The CMs were great--especially in the concierge lounge, the offerings in the lounge were plentiful and delicious.

We went on the Sunrise Safari--WOW! This was an outstanding event. I highly recommend it. The breakfast at the Tusker HOuse was very good as well.

If you have any questions, I would be happy to try to answer them. Thank you again to all for all of the great insight that has been offered on this board.

 

[laceemouse]

Thanks for the report. It sounds like you had a great trip. For the sunrise safari, is there an age limit, or can kids go too? Thanks...Lacee

 

[okiegirl]

I am so glad you had a great time. We are going to be at AKL Dec 25-01, then WL Jan 1-3. May I ask what room number you were in or the vicinity? I would love to have that view for my boys at night.

Thanks

 

[johnsonet]

Sounds like you had a great time! We will be at AKL CL next month for the second time. I cannot WAIT! We are also doing the Sunrise Safari (also for the second time). Can you believe that breakfast?!? Did you see the baby elephant that born this summer? I hope to...
Was the lounge decorated for Christmas? Did your room have a refrigerator? Did you use it? Also, one thing I would really love to know: What were some items from the gift shop that stuck out as fun? I have an 8-y-o and am trying to think of fun things to have waiting for her in the room. #1hockeymom gave me a great idea - an African drum! - awhile back. Did anything strike you or your children as particularly great? Thanks a lot!
Thanks!

 

[christianweecare]

Oh, goodie! DH & I leave Sunday after Thanksgiving for three days at WL & three days at AKL!

 

[Danimb3]

Laceemouse: There is no age limit on for the Safari. My daughter who is 5 absolutely loved it. There were some children younger than her. I would guess that it depends on the child. There were 2 boys on our safari truck. One was absolutely fascinated (he was probably 2 or 3)--the other one was probably 4 and his parents had difficulty containing him. It is an amazing experience. The animals are very close. In fact, our guide had to physically push a curious ostrich out of our truck and the white rhinos walked within 4 or 5 feet of our truck.

Okiegirl: At WL are room number was 5028. The castle was obstructed, but could be seen somewhat through the trees. The fireworks were for the most part above the tree line. I would guess that the 6th and 7th floor would be even better. At the AKL our room was 5301. Great view of the animals. Enjoy your stay--they are both great resorts.

Johnsonet: On the sunrise safari, we did not see the baby. In fact only one elephant (the one with one tusk) was out when we went through. Our guide said that the elephants all get baths in the morning, so he suspected that is what was detaining the others. My husband went on the normal safari in the park after breakfast (about an hour later) and saw the baby--very cute..
There was a refrigerator installed in our room. We used it for water. I am very particular about my bottled water (my husband may say obsessive) and I don't care for the Dasani products, so we brought our own water.
The resort was decorated beautifully for Christmas.
I agree with the african drum. We visited the gift shop on our last day there and my daughter was fascinated with all of the African instruments . I believe they are all crafted by African tribes of different regions. We had to purchase a few of them to bring home. They sound great! I think my favorites were a little hand drum that when you twist in your hand had two little balls attached to it that swung to make contact on the drum part and a maracca type instrument that looked like a gourd with beads on the outside.
Yes, the breakfast was great! We loved the variety of foods along with the old standbys. It was definitely a special morning! Enjoy your stay.