We just returned from a wonderful stay at OKW (6/4-6/11) followed by a couple of nights at the CR. Random thoughts:
WOW: A month before our trip, I called to upgrade to a 2 bedroom, and I am so glad we did. We were in 2612, a dedicated 2 bedroom, located on the ground floor, the first building from the 1st bus stop, and a very short walk away from the HH. The villa appeared to be newly painted. It had a DVD player, and what appeared to be a new sofa bed--we didn't try it out so I can't attest to its comfort. We overlooked a small pond, and it was wonderful to watch all the animal activity--wading birds, rabbits, etc. We decided this trip would be more relaxed than past trips, plus with the weather, we spent a good bit of time at the villa, playing cards, watching DVDs and movies. We used the pool almost everyday. At check-in, I was asked to participate in a survey where I tracked our spending--how much, where, and if I used my DVC discount. Each morning, when I turned by diary in, I got to pick a pen--like the ones that sell in the parks for $3-4. I love being asked my opinion, so this was right up my alley. We arrived on Friday at 1 pm, and told that we had a number of choices of rooms available. We had only requested non-smoking. I couldn't have asked for a better location--although I am sure as we stay more, I will find other.
Cast members were all very friendly and helpful.
Bus transportation: We had no problem with the buses. We didn't do any of the evening shows, so we were never at a park at closing--on none of our bus trips were people standing. Our longest waits were because we got to the stop just after our desired bus had passed.
Pool Hopping: we decided to go pool hopping one day and started out with Saratoga Springs. The guard at the gate let us in with no problems. We enjoyed the pool and the slide but when it came time to go to the bathroom, there isn't one at the pool. There is one in the spa, which requires a room key to get in, or you can go back to the check-in lobby. Not very convenient when wet.
I loved OKW.
WOW: A month before our trip, I called to upgrade to a 2 bedroom, and I am so glad we did. We were in 2612, a dedicated 2 bedroom, located on the ground floor, the first building from the 1st bus stop, and a very short walk away from the HH. The villa appeared to be newly painted. It had a DVD player, and what appeared to be a new sofa bed--we didn't try it out so I can't attest to its comfort. We overlooked a small pond, and it was wonderful to watch all the animal activity--wading birds, rabbits, etc. We decided this trip would be more relaxed than past trips, plus with the weather, we spent a good bit of time at the villa, playing cards, watching DVDs and movies. We used the pool almost everyday. At check-in, I was asked to participate in a survey where I tracked our spending--how much, where, and if I used my DVC discount. Each morning, when I turned by diary in, I got to pick a pen--like the ones that sell in the parks for $3-4. I love being asked my opinion, so this was right up my alley. We arrived on Friday at 1 pm, and told that we had a number of choices of rooms available. We had only requested non-smoking. I couldn't have asked for a better location--although I am sure as we stay more, I will find other.
Cast members were all very friendly and helpful.
Bus transportation: We had no problem with the buses. We didn't do any of the evening shows, so we were never at a park at closing--on none of our bus trips were people standing. Our longest waits were because we got to the stop just after our desired bus had passed.
Pool Hopping: we decided to go pool hopping one day and started out with Saratoga Springs. The guard at the gate let us in with no problems. We enjoyed the pool and the slide but when it came time to go to the bathroom, there isn't one at the pool. There is one in the spa, which requires a room key to get in, or you can go back to the check-in lobby. Not very convenient when wet.
I loved OKW.
But it is best to keep it a secret
ool Hopping: we decided to go pool hopping one day and started out with Saratoga Springs. The guard at the gate let us in with no problems. We enjoyed the pool and the slide but when it came time to go to the bathroom, there isn't one at the pool. There is one in the spa, which requires a room key to get in, or you can go back to the check-in lobby. Not very convenient when wet. 
