Thinking about DVC, which resort?

[FayeW]

We have been to Florida only one other time, and stayed offsite. We are planning a trip for next year and would like to rent points to stay at one of the DVC properties for part of our stay. I am thinking about BWV because of it's proximity to Epcot & MGM, ( we have not previously visited these parks), but I don't really know anything else about the DVC villas. Which property would you recommend for first time visitors to these parks, and first time onsite? OKW & BWV seem to be the least expensive, but perhaps another property would be more convenient for transport, entertainment, dining or kids amenities?

 

[laceemouse]

How many people will be with you and what ages are they? We recently made our first trip down as DVC members staying at BCV (our home resort.) You're right, it was fantastic being able to just walk right into EPCOT. I think BWV would be a great location too. However, we are a family of 6 and I think we would like to try OKW next time due to the extra size of the Villa. Of course, it also depends on how much time you will spend in the unit, will you cook any meals, etc. Also, does the pool matter to you at all? We bought at BCV because we thought the kids would love SAB, and they did. Right now OKW does not have a pool slide but one is in the works. Each resort has it's own list of pros and cons, I don't think any of them could be bad though, especially for someone who is new to WDW!!! You will have a great trip WHERE EVER you stay....Lacee

 

[CarolMN]

BWv is our home resort - we really love the location and the amenities!

What time of the year do you plan to visit? There are several times of the year that are especially difficult to book standard view rooms - members call day by day as soon as the 11 month booking window opens to reserve those rooms.

If you are planning on getting a standard view BWV room (less points, thus less expensive), you 'll need to make arrangements with a BWV owner far enough ahead of time to ensure the owner can call as soon as the window opens. Some owners charge more than the "average" price per point to make reservations 11 months ahead of time. You will probably also have to pay in full well in advance of your departure date. Be sure you understand the owner's cancellation policy - those vary between owners.

OKW is a larger resort and is often easier to book. Both resorts are great places to stay for a WDW vacation.

Good luck with your decision!

 

[AreWeThereYet]

BCV is our home as well, and it is a very convenient location, being closer to Epcot, the Boardwalk, MGM, etc., and it has the added benefit of having the BEST pool complex in all of WDW. IF you stay at BCV you get to use Stormalong Beach for your entire stay....well worth the price of admission.

 

[FayeW]

Thanks for your responses! We are a family of 4, kids will be 9 & turning 11 on our trip, tentatively planning for the first week of Nov/05. Our childrens' birthdays are 2 weeks apart, and we were thinking about a trip between the birthdays to celebrate them both, and maybe a 4 day cruise as well. I don't expect to cook a whole heck of alot, but being able to have coffee, breakfast and an occasional sandwich or snack in the room is what we are looking for.The pool is extremely important to us, and I really like the idea of being able to walk to Epcot. Can you walk to MGM as well from either BCV Or BWV?

 

[BWVDee]

The pool is extremely important to us,

Without a doubt stay at BCV. If you like pools, you will LOVE SAB!!!

 

[jaysue]

I would try BCV based on the pools comment - it is in a class all by itself - not necessarily the best for all but it is great for kids and active adults.

You can walk to MGM from BCV - you walk by the Beach & Yacht Clubs over the bridge towards BWV/Boardwalk but before that you turn to the right and follow the path down on the left side of the canal. A bit of a walk but go to Beaches n Cream first and then walk that sundae off!

On the way back you can always hop the boat if you are not up to the walk

thanks
jaysue