Tell me about AKL Concierge and Sunrise Safari

[DJmommy]

Considering doing a split stay adding AKL Concierge primarily to do the Sunrise Safari which I think I would love. Please tell me what you can about this. Are children of all ages allowed? Is it now Sunday and Thursday?

What are the offering like in the AKL concierge lounge?

Any other comments ( good or bad ) are appreciated.

Thank you so much in advance.

 

[mjkaferle5]

Considering doing a split stay adding AKL Concierge primarily to do the Sunrise Safari which I think I would love. Please tell me what you can about this. Are children of all ages allowed? Is it now Sunday and Thursday?

What are the offering like in the AKL concierge lounge?

Any other comments ( good or bad ) are appreciated.

Thank you so much in advance.

We are considering the same thing!!!!! Any info on these topics would be great!!

 

[DJmommy]

Can anyone give us an update as to what the food offerings are and how you found the sunrise safari?

We have a 2 year old and I was wondering how bumpy the ride really is.

 

[wdwaholic]

We stayed Concierge this past Aug. and did the Sunrise Safari-All I can say is WOW-the ride may be a bit too bumpy for a 2yo-you would have to hold them on your lap-the trucks and the route are the same as the public safari.the safari is definitely worth the $50/pp-we saw soo many different animals up close aw: !!The safari took about 1hr and after that we were led to Tusker House where we had a breakfast buffet that was excellent-the chef came out and explained to us what the dishes were and sat down and ate with us.It is offered on Sun. and Tues-departs from the lodge about 7:30a
The lounge offerings are :
6:30aMacheo-coffee and juices
7-10:30aMiamko-pastries,cold cereals,fruits,juices
11:30-3p Vitafunio-African snacks(chips,nuts goldfish,pretzels) and beverages
3-4:30pChai-teas,scones,cookies,biscuits
5-7p Kisikusiku-wines,appetizers
8-10p Rehema-desserts,cordials
We loved Concierge-the kids want to go back in 2006-now all i have to do is convince DH
Trish

 

[my3kids]

We loved the concierge lounge at AKL. In the evenings they had hot appetizers that really could make a meal if you wanted it to. Always nice cool drinks available, cold breakfast, great coffee from their machine. It was a beautiful lounge and we enjoyed sitting there or people watching from the top of the gorgeous lobby.

The sunrise safari was good. No problem with kids attending. Terrific breakfast after the ride. An A+ in all our minds.

 

[Lisacope]

Hi,.

We are doing a split stay in June 2006 and I considered doing AKL concierge so we could do the sunrise safari but it seems that the room view isn't necessarily savannah! I didn't want to risk getting a non-savannah view to do the sunrise safari so I did delux savannah view. If you have done concierge at AKL and not gotten a savannah view, was it worth it?

 

[CoolDisneyCat]

Hi,.

We are doing a split stay in June 2006 and I considered doing AKL concierge so we could do the sunrise safari but it seems that the room view isn't necessarily savannah! I didn't want to risk getting a non-savannah view to do the sunrise safari so I did delux savannah view. If you have done concierge at AKL and not gotten a savannah view, was it worth it?

From what I understand all the non savannah view rooms are smoking. Just request a NS room and you would be fine.

We enjoyed our stay at AKL a great deal with one exception... people pushing and shoving to get to the food. There were people standing in the way of the CMs trying to set up. I heard one poor lady ask them to move several times.

We did the Sunset Safari, so I can't help with the Sunrise question, sorry.

 

[johnvree]

We love the Poly's concierge service. The AKL concierge food offerings look even better. However, three things have kept us from going concierge at the AKL:

1) The Lounge does not face the savanahs. This makes no sense to me.

2) The concierge rooms are up on the higher floors. We love the third floor. That floor is high enough to see most of the savanah and low enough to get a good look at the animals.

3) There is no way to guarantee that you will get a savanah view room. This is the big one for me and has kept me in a regular room. There is no way I would pay top dollar for a room at the AKL and not even have a savanah room. It is unbelievable that that could happen, but it still appears to be a possibility.

 

[Lollipop Mom]

Lounge offerings are as follows, but may change at any time:

Macheo (Sunrise Offering)
6:30am
Coffee and assorted juices

Miamko (Adventurous Awakenings)
7:00AM - 10:30AM
An assortment of fresh fruits, juices, pastries and cereals.

Vitafunio (Safari Snacks)
11:30AM to 3:00PM
Various snacks and beverages

Chai (Afternoon Tea)
3:00PM - 4:30PM
Loose leaf teas, assorted scones, cookies and biscuits.

Kisikusiku (Twighlight Offerings)
5:00PM - 7:00PM
Assorted wines, hors d'oeuvers, and specialty appetizers (provided from the Lodge's restaurants, like Jiko and Boma)

Rehema (Evening Indulgences)
8:00PM - 10:00PM
Desserts and Cordials


The concierge floor consists of 55 deluxe rooms, 17 suites and the Vice Presidential and Presidential Suites. The deluxe rooms are larger than the standard rooms at 381 sq. ft. Most of the rooms are located on the 6th floor, with some on the fifth floor. Special requests for views in other areas of the lodge not usually considered concierge rooms are usually granted

There is no way to guarantee that you will get a savanah view room. This is the big one for me and has kept me in a regular room. There is no way I would pay top dollar for a room at the AKL and not even have a savanah room. It is unbelievable that that could happen, but it still appears to be a possibility.

As someone mentioned the nonsmoking rooms are all savannah view so noting you require a nonsmoking room will help prevent this. If you want to be 100% certain, book concierge and notify IPO that you are willing to accept a 5th floor deluxe savannah view room if need be to ensure a savannah view. The concierge lounge is on the 6th floor and there are 15 concierge rooms on that floor, the other 40 concierge rooms are on the 5th floor and pretty much are deluxe savannah view rooms, they are just in the area right below the lounge whereas a deluxe savannah view room may be more of a walk away. The rooms are the same size though. If you really love a certain floor, you can request to be put on that floor, but if it is anyhting other than 5th, your room will be about 40 sq ft smaller.

 

[DJmommy]

Thanks to all who replied.

Can you get milk, chocolate milk or bottled water for the kids? Neither of our kids drinks soda or too much juice, so milk or water would be preferred.

Do they have those uncrustables (PB&J) for the kids? Anything besides pretzels or chips for the kids? I'm sure my DH and I would really enjoy the appetizers but not sure there would be enough stuff for the kids to snack on. They are 6 and 2, with very basic tastes (nothing too exotic). Also, for breakfast, do they have popular cereals? Specifics would be appreciated. If they don't have what my kids eat, I may bring some along from home.

If anyone can think of anything else I would really appreciate.

I did go ahead and book it, so I can't wait. Just have to decide whether my daughter might be too little for the safari. She will be 2 1/2 by the time we go. I think she would really enjoy it as she loves animals, but I don't want her jostled around and falling out of her seat. If anyone has any experience with little ones I would love to hear it.

Thanks so much to all of you.

 

[#1hockeymom]

Lollipop mom did an excellent job answering everyones' questions! One more thing to add, if you beg plead and carry on *or ask nicely!* you can get a room that isn't in the concierge area. I prefer to be way out on the ends. Every concierge trip to AKL I have been on I have been out of the "area" except when I was in the two bedroom suite. Obviously, this is only a request, but it worked for me!

I wish I could remember what type of cereal they had, but I don't remember. We never had the cereal! I don't remember any major kid/sugar coated cereal. I would bring their favorite from home. We did have the oatmeal quite a few times. There are always a large selection of pastries and fresh fruits for breakfast, also.They have chocolate milk and white milk in the small fridge on the counter. If there isn't any in there you can ask one of the CMs and they would be happy to get it for you.
Uncrustables were usually out during the evening offerings along with chicken fingers for the children who didn't want to partake in any of the other offerings for appetizers.

Happy planning. Have a wild time!
Debbie

 

[DJmommy]

Thanks Debbie,

I am glad to know the kids will have a few things they will enjoy. They both eat a lot of fresh fruit and would eat pastry any day of the week. They love those uncrustables ( I only buy them on occasion, but they would think it would be awesome to have at the AKL ).

Does anyone know if they have bottled water? I can't remember it's been so long since I have been at Disney, but people seem to complain about the taste of the water there. If not available, I may just ship a case down before we go.

 

[lisareniff]

The concierge floor consists of 55 deluxe rooms, 17 suites and the Vice Presidential and Presidential Suites. The deluxe rooms are larger than the standard rooms at 381 sq. ft. Most of the rooms are located on the 6th floor, with some on the fifth floor. Special requests for views in other areas of the lodge not usually considered concierge rooms are usually granted

As someone mentioned the nonsmoking rooms are all savannah view so noting you require a nonsmoking room will help prevent this. If you want to be 100% certain, book concierge and notify IPO that you are willing to accept a 5th floor deluxe savannah view room if need be to ensure a savannah view. The concierge lounge is on the 6th floor and there are 15 concierge rooms on that floor, the other 40 concierge rooms are on the 5th floor and pretty much are deluxe savannah view rooms, they are just in the area right below the lounge whereas a deluxe savannah view room may be more of a walk away. The rooms are the same size though. If you really love a certain floor, you can request to be put on that floor, but if it is anyhting other than 5th, your room will be about 40 sq ft smaller.

You did a great job describing the rooms LollipopMom! The only detail that I might add is that of the 55 deluxe Concerige rooms only six are pool view smoking rooms on the 6th floor. The other 9 sixth floor rooms face the sunset savannah and from what posts I have read their view is not as desirable due to the roof line and the distance to the savannah. (but this could be totally off base) The other 40 rooms are on the fifth floor.

As far as little ones in the lounge.... They did have the full menu of milk available! LOL! (Skim, 2%, chocolate) You could also make hot chocolate from the expresso (sp) I only remember 3-4 cereal dispensers and I can't remember what kinds. You might want to bring their fav. if it would help make things more normal for them.

We did go on the SS with our girls (9 & 3.5) They both enjoyed it. If you feel your 2.5 yo can sit for the 45 min ride, then go for it. When I say sit, I don't mean still without moving but without the need to run around. Some 1.5-2.5 yo's need to move! Wiggling, changing position, sitting-standing-sitting, etc. would be fine. They also need to be somewhat respectful with their voice. Others might not want a loud child behind them drowning out that the CM is saying. Quiet talking or whispering between your family is fine. As far as the safety... As long as your little one is not on the outside you shouldn't have any problems. Our family of 4 had a row and DD3 sat in the middle. I think there is less bouncing with the SS then the regular safari because they are going much slower and stopping often. The only other tip I might add is to feed you little ones BEFORE the SS. I know you will have a buffet soon but you don't want a hungry 2yo getting cranky on everyone's safari! BTW the buffet was great! I would do the SS again if staying at AKL!

 

[lisareniff]

Thanks Debbie,

I am glad to know the kids will have a few things they will enjoy. They both eat a lot of fresh fruit and would eat pastry any day of the week. They love those uncrustables ( I only buy them on occasion, but they would think it would be awesome to have at the AKL ).

Does anyone know if they have bottled water? I can't remember it's been so long since I have been at Disney, but people seem to complain about the taste of the water there. If not available, I may just ship a case down before we go.

They did not have individual bottles of water in the lounge but larger bottles to pour into glasses.

 

[DJmommy]

Thanks Lisa for the tips. I will have to seriously consider whether it will be a good idea to take her or not. She is usually very well behaved, but as we all know, toddlers can their moods on a dime. I could see her raising her voice in excitement if she sees giraffes which are her favorite. That may not be too good, though.

I will ask them in concierge what they recommend. I will definately reserve seats for my son and I and maybe it will all work out. I feel bad that my DH may have to stay behind with her, but he likes to relax in the am and not rush around so much.

Thanks again!

 

[lisareniff]

I will have to seriously consider whether it will be a good idea to take her or not. She is usually very well behaved, but as we all know, toddlers can their moods on a dime. I could see her raising her voice in excitement if she sees giraffes which are her favorite. That may not be too good, though.

I hope my wording wasn't to strick. I think little of that would be fine. The CM (I forgot their real description. CM is much to generic.) in the vehicle is speaking over a microphone so you don't have to be too quiet. There is also the vehicle noise. I just know I hate it when I get a really loud family (and it is usally the whole family not just a child!) behind me at an event or movie. Do you know what I mean? I was concerned when we went as well. I had even read a couple post expressing dissatisfaction with young children on the ss. But, if you are already concerned you will be fine. I would go. My latest trick at an event I wanted to attend but had to bring my DD3 along.... lollypops! Put a couple DumDums in your pocket as a safety measure. What's a little sugar in the morning!! LOL!

 

[DJmommy]

Lisa,

I really appreciate your thoughts on the situation. I always try to be very considerate of those around me and try to keep a close eye on my kids to ensure that they are not ruining other people's enjoyment. Like when I read posts about how parents let their children run amok through the CL. I would never let that happen. It must be my strict upbringing coming through. It's so true about the things you say to your kids that your parents said to you.

Yeah Lisa I totally agree. Those dum dum's work wonders. Quiets them right down.

 

[Harambe]

Lisa,

I really appreciate your thoughts on the situation. I always try to be very considerate of those around me and try to keep a close eye on my kids to ensure that they are not ruining other people's enjoyment. Like when I read posts about how parents let their children run amok through the CL. I would never let that happen. It must be my strict upbringing coming through. It's so true about the things you say to your kids that your parents said to you.

Yeah Lisa I totally agree. Those dum dum's work wonders. Quiets them right down.

I wish you were the mom that went on the safari with us! LOL! This couple brought two chilldren (one about 18months and one about 3). The three-year-old was petrified and screamed for the first twenty minutes of the safari. Then I had to listen for the next thirty miinutes to the mom telling this kid if he didn't stop crying, she was going to make him lie face down on the floor of the vehicle.


This family also sat at our table during the breakfast at Tuskers, with the little one throwing cheerios at everyone. By this time, we just tried to see the humor in it. I know these folks paid the same amount as we did, so what could we do? But for us to spend $175 to hear all that, was a little upseting!

 

[Lollipop Mom]

My latest trick at an event I wanted to attend but had to bring my DD3 along.... lollypops! Put a couple DumDums in your pocket as a safety measure.

Can I just say that this is the reason I have the user name "Lollipop Mom?"

When my oldest was about 2 I had lollipops in the diaper bag ALL the time. We would go out to lunch with other Moms and toddlers after Gymboree every week. I would give the kids a lollipop to suck on after they ate their food so the Moms could talk. One of the little boys started calling me "the Lollipop Mommy" and it stuck.

So for anyone on the 12/11 sunrise safari...I'll be the one with 2 little boys who are bribed with lollipops as a last resort.

 

[DJmommy]

Harambe,

Yikes, that sounds like the Sunrise Safari from HELL.

When you are faced with those circumstances, you have to try to find the humor in it.