Originally posted by cruise-o-matic
Is it possible to just "drop by" a DVC resort or do you have to make an appointment? Say I'm at FWL for Dinner or at the BW, would someone be able to show me around VWL, BWV or BCV?
The only resort DVC is actively selling is Saratoga Springs. That is the only resort for which they will give you a formal tour.
However, you can ask at the front desk of any resort if they have an empty room that you can tour. If it isn't a busy time, and they have a staff member available, someone will escort you to the room and allow you to look around for a couple of minutes. No guarantee as to what size of room it might be, assuming they have any unoccupied rooms at all.
How do the DVC rooms compare with their counterparts? For example, VWL rooms vs. FWL.
The DVC studios are very comparable to the Deluxe resort rooms in terms of square footage and amenities. But the DVC rooms also feature a kitchenette in each Studio and free access to public laundry facilities. The 1B, 2B and Grand Villas have no peer at any of the Disney resorts. They are truely "home away from home" accommodations.
You can probably find floorplans on either the main Disney World web site or the DVC site.
Is there a picture or map of StormAlong Bay? Does that make BCV slighlty more desireable than BWV?
You seem to be really hung up on this issue of "desirability." At present time, resales at BCV and VWL are typically the most difficult to come by. The main two reasons are, IMO, the proximity to theme park (which many consider to be a valuable perk) and the very small size of each property.
BWV is probably third on the list, again due to the proximity to Epcot / MGM and the fact that it's about half the size of Old Key West.
But the general public's concept of "desirability" should not be the primary determining factor in your decision where to purchase. As I said in my prior post, OKW has the largest guest rooms of any of the DVC properties, and it also has 12-person Grand Villas which cost about HALF the points of the GVs at BWV or SSR. Thus if you travel with many friends and family members, you should definitely consider OKW for that reason. According to reports it is nearly impossible to book an OKW Grand Villa at 7 months.
But my point is, gather all of the info about the resorts. Tour as many as possible. And then decide based upon the accommodations that suit your tastes and needs. While BCV is arguably the most popular resale, there are many people who have no interest in owning or staying there. Make the decision that is right for YOU.
