Hello there , and good choice..
We just had our 1st trip there back in Nov. and we were very skeptical as well. Not sure where to request, not sure what to expect. Yadda yadda...
I originally booked a standard room. When we arrived for our 9 night trip, it was already 10 30 pm. I asked the CM if there were any updated rooms in the mansion area that were still available. It took a few minutes but he was pleased to say yes. Also we got this w/out them asking for the additional $$.(Not sure if this was because the time we showed up?) Anyhow, After grabbing our MYW card & bags, we took a short stroll through the main doors near the lagoon area. We proceeded over the 1st bridge towards the main pool, and then across the next bridge to the mansions. Low and behold, the Magnolia Bldg, (which we had) was right there. Our room was just through the main hallway on 2 floor facing the back gardens. *** Literally a 6 minute walk. For you with elders maybe an 8-10 minute walk. If that ! The pool is half that. Now for the buses. This was the only thing that was just ok. very crowded no matter time of day or park. Especially Fantasmic from HS.
What we did was walk to the main bldg to grab either a pastry or small bite then proceeded to the main bldg bus depot. When we returned from the parks we got off at the east depot, which was a 4 minute walk from the stop to our room.The place is gorgeous and the theming is very nice. Not soo much in yer face Disney, (like the values)...LoL Good Luck and have a great time.