OKW vs AKL

[mmps108]

We are a family of 6 adults and 4 kids (6,7, 18 mo and 8 mo). We have OKW (home) booked for a 2 br and studio but AKL would be a better use of our points because AKL allows us to use leftover points for another trip in 2013.
We're traveling the 3rd week of September 2013, anyone know if we're going to have trouble getting AKL at 7 months?

On another note, we LOVE, LOVE, OKW for the atmosphere and location. Are we going to be disappointed with the transportation at AKL? I'm concerned because before we had DVC we stayed at one of the All Stars and getting anywhere was pain; it felt like we were in timbuktu.

 

[drusba]

Getting AKV savanna or standard view or even a GV will be very easy in September, a low DVC demand time, at 7 months out (it was wide open this year at 7 months out for that time in September for even several weeks beyond the 7 month window). You would likely have difficulty if you want concierge or the smaller but cheaper "value" rooms.

We have found AKV's busses to be fine and better than most, usually timely and you have only two stops at the resort (one each at the Kidani and Jambo buildings). For 2BRs, Kidani has the larger rooms and the third bathroom, not as large as OKW but larger than the 2BRs at any of the other WDW DVC resorts. Thus if room space is important, Kidani would provide the better rooms.

 

[vek239]

We went this past September- 6 adults, 5 young kids. Initially we booked OKW GV at 7 month mark for all the space- but I started 2nd guessing my choice and ended up changing to Kidani 2 bedroom and studio with no problem at about the 5 month mark. The grandkids are young and I knew they loved the Kidani pool and seeing the animals, etc. When they're older we might re-consider OKW. We've never had a problem with busses from AKL; maybe it's just us but we like it better than the bus routes from other resorts.

 

[MJMcBride]

I would always pick AKL. my young ones love it. Just being able to watch the animals was a highlight.

They loved the theme and the night vision goggles and the pool

 

[BEASLYBOO]

Well those are my two favorite resorts! Honestly the bus issue for us is moot point, when we're on vacation 10-15 more of or on a bus doesn't bother any of us. I have no complaints with either resort on that issue.

We always book 2 bedrooms! Love OKW for it's tropical ambiance, and huge floor plan. It's my favorite resort. As far as AKV, I love Kidani, sure it's a bit tighter than OKW but it's layed better than Jambo. With Kidani's addition of the sleeper chair and that 3rd bathroom it's a winner! Sanaa is a wonderful restaurant, worth trying. The resort is beautiful, covered parking. Yes, the long hallways are a bit of a pain, but it doesn't discourage me from staying there. You won't have a bit of trouble booking at the 7 month mark.

This was the view from our standard 2bd, yes animals abound! Maybe you'll luck out too! Forgive my Photobucket issues!

 

[mmps108]

Sounds like we'll be good either way! Thanks for all your replies. I think in order for our idea of using less points by AKV, we need to be in Jambo House in the value section so I'm not sure if we'll be able to get that at 7 months. As long as we get to go, I'm good!!