Swan/AKL conc. or AKL standard???

[pooh.kim]

We will be in the world from Jan 1-5 with four days in the parks. We have two options for resorts that I am toying with. What would you do??? All rates dependent upon AP rates or codes though.

Option #1 - 2 nights at the Swan (have enough points for 2 free nights) and then 2 nights AKL concierge. Would like to do the Sunrise Safari. Only DS and I so not sure the extra $$ would justify costs of concierge and having to change resorts. Total $550

Option #2 - 4 nights AKL standard. Stayed with savannah view last time and not sure how I would feel about actually staying in a standard room. Would be "settled" though and not lose moving time. Total $485

We really loved the AKL on our last trip but feel this was due to the "perfect" view and room we had. Faced Arusha Savannah, 3rd floor, short walk from lobby, right beside elevator down to pool/Mara's. Don't know what to do. We could always stay at the ASMu for $250 and save lots (this was DH choice since he can't go) but I think I would miss "my" resort too much.

What would you do if you had to decide????

 

[*Flower*]

Sunrise Safari is only done on Tuesday's and Saturdays.
You would need to plan your trip accordingly to do this.
Alot would depend on this- because the concierge rooms are on the 5th and 6th floors. You wouldn't be as close to the animals, but the continental breakfast and other amenities are great!!

We did it last year with a code, and are able to do it again this year with a code. I wouldn't be able to do it without one.....

Good luck, whatever you decide!

 

[pooh.kim]

Anyone else?

 

[robinb]

Originally posted by pooh.kim
We could always stay at the ASMu for $250 and save lots (this was DH choice since he can't go) but I think I would miss "my" resort too much.

LOL! Of course he wants you to save money since he's not going .

I would pick Option#1. You are already spoiled by the savanah view and might be disappointed by not having it. Your dates are such that you would go from the Swan (a very nice hotel) to AKL, so you would be "upgrading". The only downsides are (1) you'll need to move and (2) the luggage fairies don't move luggage from the Swan or Dolphin to Disney resorts. Consider it an excuse to pack light .

 

[pooh.kim]

Received my airline tickets in the mail today. YEAH!!!!!
Well, not actual tickets, but you know what I mean. So I guess we are really going.
Probably have plenty of time before discounts come out for Jan. to decide on resort so anymore suggestions would be helpful...
Can you tell I like to plan ahead..... compulsively?

 

[nwdisgal]

I resort hopped last week to Swan. I looked at the interior, really liked it and the proximity to Epcot. I hope to stay there some day.

I have stayed at AKL two times. The first time I reserved a pool view and received a Savannah view, the second time I reserved a Basic View and received a Savannah view. Both complimentery upgrades were not the most prime location for a Savannah view. They also included the people pen in the foreground, but we did see animals. I am guessing that they typically reserve the best views for the people that pay for them - which makes sense. Anyway, my point with all of this is, there are no guarantees with a Basic View at AKl. I did see many people in rooms that looked onto the bus stop on my walk to the bus everyday. So invariably people end up there. There was also someone on the first floor looking at the dreaded wall that has been described on these boards.

If I were in your shoes I would book two days at Swan to have the proximity to Epcot and splurge for a guaranteed view at AKL. I think the view is very much a part of the experience at AKL.

Good luck with your decision!