Thinking about AKL - is it really worth the $$?

[mickeysaver]

If it helps, we are staying 7 nights in October, just the two of us. I will share with you what the cost with and without AAA were for us.

We booked a Savannah View, asking for non-smoking and king bed due to asthma and a much needed ECV. We are getting 6 day park hoppers, the dining plan and have included trip ins.

The grand total with the AAA discount was just under $3570.
At rack rate, it was quoted as being almost $3,833.
That AAA card saved us 10% off the room rate which is a total of $263!

Not a great deal, but not a bad one either. Maggie

 

[pilferk]

I think AKL is definitely worth it...mostly because it's a unique experience you're unable to get anywhere else in the US. We loved the rooms, the pool, the neat art exhibits scattering the resort, the restaurants, etc. And while the resort IS a bit further off the beaten path, that actually added some charm to it, for us. And the Disney transportation is pretty quick...it doesn't share a bus system with any other resort...so it's not like you're driving for HOURS to get to the parks. Heck, if you're staying off site most of the time, the transportation is likely going to be light years quicker than what you're used to.

That being said"...I'm not sure when your next trip is...and it sounds like you go to WDW pretty frequently, so I'd almost suggest waiting just a bit. Then you can look into renting DVC points, once they become more avialalbe, and booking a stay at the Animal Kingdom Villas (you could check the rent/trade board). That way you could get a larger room, probably savannah view, for less than the price of a standard hotel room....