Maybe trying a DVC resort

[LoveMMC]

We are booked to go to Disney in August. But wondered about trying to rent DVC points. I might not have the option because its late to book - but
We are thinking of AKL studio or Old Key West -
Hubby is a little worried about AKL being too far out. But we would love to try it.
Old Key West has the boat option which we love about POFQ.
We like the price of these two- same as riverside.

Any pros or cons about AKL or OKW that stands out of you?

Thank you!!

 

[nalajms]

We've never stayed at OKW, but they are the only studios with 2 beds. All other DVC studios have a queen and pull out sofa.

AKL would be my choice. We're not much downtown Disney people. AKL has a bunch of activities going on all day, great pool, and great Savannah viewing.

I would email David's and see if there's availability and points. It's worth a shot and you can always cancel the Disney reservation afterwards.

 

[abner1776]

Have stayed at OKW twice with another visit coming up in 10 days. OKW is not our DVC home resort, but we love it because it is just so laid back and restful. The rooms are larger than most of the other DVC resorts but the resort is spread out which can cause problems in getting around and because it is spread out it is quieter and less busy than any of the other Disney resorts we have stayed at which includes AKL. I personally have not had any problems with the busses but because of it's expansive size, there are multiple bus stops which can aggravate some people. There is only one restaurant at OKW so food options are limited and the main pool is very nice. If you stay at OKW you will see that most people have their own cars because parking is right in front of your room sort of like you would see at a motel anywhere else in the US. If you are into golf, the Lake Buena Vista 18 hole golf course runs right through the resort, but you have to go to SSR for the clubhouse.

Overall, I give OKW a thumbs up as it is one of our favorites, plus because it is not attached to one of the parks, the points per night are lower than at other DVC resorts which translates into cheaper rental rates for those renters out there.

 

[NancyDVC]

OKW is my home resort and I love it. It is quiet and laid back. The bus transportation is great and I love the ferry to DTD. It is just like being in a small home town. The villas are roomy and you can stretch out and relax.
Olivia's is the restaurant and I love it. The selection at Good's (the quick/counter service restaurant) is limited. One of my favorite things is the wildlife. We recently returned from a trip to OKW. One afternoon as we got off the bus my friend spotted a young hawk sitting on the rearview mirror of a parked SUV. I was able to take several pictures of 'him' as he sat there very quietly looking for prey. We have seen blue herons as well as the ubiquitous mallards, ibis and geckos. It is my first choice for a resort at WDW.

 

[sleepydog25]

We are booked to go to Disney in August. But wondered about trying to rent DVC points. I might not have the option because its late to book - but
We are thinking of AKL studio or Old Key West -
Hubby is a little worried about AKL being too far out. But we would love to try it.
Old Key West has the boat option which we love about POFQ.
We like the price of these two- same as riverside.

Any pros or cons about AKL or OKW that stands out of you?

Thank you!!

AKL: Pros--gorgeous rooms, possible savannah views, beautiful main Lodge lobby, and two of the top restaurants in WDW: Sanaa and Jiko. Boma is also beloved by many. Cons--you must rely on buses or personal transportation to get anywhere giving some the feeling of being removed from the "action." No guarantee you'll get a savannah view.
OKW: Pros--one of the most relaxing of resorts, larger rooms, boat to DTD. Cons--spread out, not close to any parks, limited restaurant options.

Good luck!

 

[DreamerWDW]

I would pick AKV over OKW. In fact, I just did this for a trip I have coming up. I like the atmosphere and expansive lobby at Jambo. Plus all the food choices at AKL and I prefer the pool area. Also, I like having a couch in the room vs the 2 beds at OKW. I've stayed at and enjoyed OKW, but I would choose AKV Jambo.

 

[disneynutz]

Each resort has it's own pluses and minuses. OKW is an older more mature condo style resort , laid back, thinner walls so you might hear your neighbor and due to the location and lush vegetation it can smell musty.

AKV is a larger resort with more to offer, more activity, darker furnishings, hotel style resort.

Bill

 

[LoveMMC]

That's great info. Thank you everyone