New DVCer's first ressie, need advice

[hellerjw]

We just put our deposit down for a contract at AKV and will be making our first DVC trip in August.

Since I don't want to leave our accomodations up in the air on the off-chance I can get something at AKV on May 16th, I'm looking for advice on a backup DVC resort to book now.

We have 2 young children who love to swim so a nice pool with slide, etc would help ease the disappointment of not getting into our home resort for our first trip. I've considered BWV (due to its proximity to Epcot & MGM) and OKW (due to larger room size, dedicated buses, more secluded).

Any advice for a first timer?

 

[MrsNick]

To my knowledge, AKV won't be open for occupancy for September, so if you are going this August, I think you will have to book somewhere else. Wherever you stay, I'm sure you will enjoy.

 

[bobbiwoz]

Did you get developer points? If so, you can use them. Also, people are talking about MS allowing people to book AKV in August, I don't know anything concrete about that.

However, if you can book and want to so somewhere, I agree with your assessment of OKW and BWV. Get the order that you want straight in your head, and call for availability!

Since you bought from Disney, you can call now and see what's available!

Bobbi

 

[hellerjw]

My guide said they would have a limited number of AKV units available starting in July and I can try booking starting May 16th (I believe other posters have mentioned being told this also). My UY will be March so I can take my '07 points now for the August trip.

I plan to call tomorrow to see what's available at the other resorts.

 

[CapeCodFam]

My UY will be March so I can take my '07 points now for the August trip.

I plan to call tomorrow to see what's available at the other resorts.

I added on at AKV and have a June UY. I did not elect to take developer points. I was told that my '07 points become available for use when AKV opens in Sept. I.e. no points for use anywhere before 9/07.

Because of this, I borrowed from my 08 BWV points for a summer visit this year. we're banking our AKV points and will take 2 AKV trips next year.

 

[robhawk]

OKW was a wonderful place to stay when the kids were younger. Great pool and some nice quiet pools around the complex.
Spacious rooms that allow for naps and total relaxation.
Bike riding
The best key lime pie!!!
Good luck

Rob

 

[pilferk]

To my knowledge, AKV won't be open for occupancy for September, so if you are going this August, I think you will have to book somewhere else. Wherever you stay, I'm sure you will enjoy.

The newest info, coming from MS, is there will be a very limited number of units opening July 2nd to book on points. It's a VERY small number, though, from what they're saying.

 

[hellerjw]

I was told we would have our '07 points since we have a March UY. I don't know if this was a mistake or simply because this is our first contract (not an add-on)? I will call and find out for sure.

 

[Glendamax]

I was told we would have our '07 points since we have a March UY.

You're right. That's exactly what I have. My guide suggested that I make reservations at another resort in case AKV became totally booked for my dates in Sept. I booked at Wilderness, since its so close to Magic Kingdom.