Late March 2009 at AKV. Anticipated construction?

[bookswin]

Howdy. I am thinking about booking a 2-BR unit at AKV for the end of March 2009, right at the 7-month window. This would be for a "once-in-a-lifetime" trip for my 75+ y.o. parents, who will be accompanying my DW, DS12, and me.

These dates mesh well with our schedules, but I am wondering whether it would be better to wait a few more months, as construction of Kidani will not be done by then, as I understand it.

I'm wondering what the situation is likely to be like with construction, inconvenience, etc. I have not been to AKV yet (though we are WDW/DVC veterans), so I'd appreciate insight from people who have. Thanks.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Welll, if you book into Jambo and happen to get the Sunset Savanna, you will see construction and you might not have animals on that savanna, but any other savanna location or standard room is not going to have any kind of view of the Kidani constuction. Kidani itself does not open until May, so you wont be in a construction zone per se.

 

[dwelty]

I would consider booking at another DVC and visiting AKL and here is why. It is likely that one of the savannas will be closed during that time, to allow final touches to Kidani Village that opens the first of May. So you have a good chance of not seeing animals from your room. Second, The layout of the 2 bedroom units at Jambo are not the best in my opinion. They are converted hotel rooms, and are a little cramped. (not the best layout for the elderly).
Remember, there are alot of public viewing areas at the lodge. At least one savanna will be open, and you can allways go to the viewing area on that side. I would plan a nice dinner there one night, and arrive before dark. The animals are always most active in the mornings or late afternoon.

If Kidani was open during your trip, I would say go for it, as the floorplans are alot better. But that will not happen until after your visit.

 

[bookswin]

dianeschlicht and dwelty: Thanks for your thoughts. Yes, I think it may be best to wait until fall or something.