Need some pixie dust

[flamark]

Well I'm kinda down in the dumps right now because it seems like we are going to have to change resorts for our upcoming 20th anniversary trip from POLY to AOA. The good thing is that the reason for the change is that my DS19, DS16 and DS19's GF are going to be able to join us for the first 3 nights of our trip. I am very happy they will be there and would much rather be with them than at a nicer resort, but I thought we would be able to keep POLY and have them come. UNTIL $2000-$3000 food bills started smacking me in the face. So it's AOA LK suite for me, DS19, DS16, DS11, DS7 and LM room for DW,DS19GF, DD5. Most importantly I need for you guys to tell me that AOA is cool and that we will have a good time and not be sad we aren't at POLY. Also can I request a LK suite "close to LM" and a LM room "close to LK"? How far is that? I know from the map they are right next to each other but 100'? 200'? Also, while watching a resort video it looked as though the cones at the Cars pool were cabanas. Are they for rent or just first come first serve? Thanks in advance for the info and please tell me it'll all be ok!

 

[aaarcher86]

Well I'm kinda down in the dumps right now because it seems like we are going to have to change resorts for our upcoming 20th anniversary trip from POLY to AOA. The good thing is that the reason for the change is that my DS19, DS16 and DS19's GF are going to be able to join us for the first 3 nights of our trip. I am very happy they will be there and would much rather be with them than at a nicer resort, but I thought we would be able to keep POLY and have them come. UNTIL $2000-$3000 food bills started smacking me in the face. So it's AOA LK suite for me, DS19, DS16, DS11, DS7 and LM room for DW,DS19GF, DD5. Most importantly I need for you guys to tell me that AOA is cool and that we will have a good time and not be sad we aren't at POLY. Also can I request a LK suite "close to LM" and a LM room "close to LK"? How far is that? I know from the map they are right next to each other but 100'? 200'? Also, while watching a resort video it looked as though the cones at the Cars pool were cabanas. Are they for rent or just first come first serve? Thanks in advance for the info and please tell me it'll all be ok!

Those two room types will be in completely different sections. The comes are first come first serve I believe, and people rise crazy early and claim them with towels.

 

[snowwhite84]

You will have an awesome time How fun that everyone will get to go together!

Besides, it is just a good excuse to book a future trip at the Poly!

 

[smithgrandchild]

You could also consider having two resort experiences during the trip and changing to the Poly after the kids leave to defer some of the cost and have a special experience for just the two of you. We've done this and it works fine.

 

[blackmamba10000]

You could also consider having two resort experiences during the trip and changing to the Poly after the kids leave to defer some of the cost and have a special experience for just the two of you. We've done this and it works fine.

We're doing a split stay as well! Disney makes it super easy for you to switch hotels!

Even if you decide not to do a split stay, AoA is super special! The level of detail can't be beat and the food court I hear is one of the best on property! There's a couple threads devoted to AoA. I suggest you take a look at these, as there are some major fans who'll be glad to share the best of AoA. The best part is, you can still plan on visiting the Poly for dinner one night at Ohana's or the Spirit of Aloha dinner show. You could time your reservation so you can catch the electrical water parade and MK's "Wishes" fireworks from the beach at the Poly!

 

[HopperFan]

I would for sure make the request for the ends of each building in trying to keep your family closer together. Unless you are wanting the kitchenette have you thought about three LM rooms together, putting the teen boys in a room? Might cost less and help with that food bill And are you going during "Free" Dining, that would help considerably with that many people!

I haven't stayed but walked it all over and took the TA tour of the Lion King Suites. There is no detail they haven't imagineered! Loved the food court, ate here a few times and unless they changed it - real plates and flatware. Had long convo with food manager and chef and they are working hard to make this a special experience for a value.

Was around the cars pool in September and it was pretty empty and most the cones were empty. I would def try to utilize them!

Here is only pic I got of both buildings. So the end of the Lion King on right and start of Mermaid on left. Maybe farther than 200' but not crazy far.