If you’re like most DVC owners, you come home from your WDW trip only to start planning your next one. The only thing more exciting than visiting your “home away from home” is researching your next trip. DVC owners know there are three definite things in life; death, taxes, and you’re going back (hopefully not in that order).
The dilemma we DVC owners face is where to stay. I’m a proud, 15 year, 300 point owner of the Boardwalk Resort. I love the casual seaside atmosphere during the day and the action that comes alive at night. Where else can you get run over by a surrey? With that said, I’m ashamed to admit, I HAVE NOT stayed at the Boardwalk in many years. Why?
Seven good reasons:
Beach Club Villas – The best thing about the BCV is the pool, the pool, and did I mention the pool. Whether it’s the speedy slide, the refreshing lazy river, or the kid friendly sand pool, this outdoor experience could be considered Disney’s mini water park. The food at Hurricane Hanna’s is fresh, convenient, and the variety of adult drinks can help any mom or dad recuperate from a tough day.
Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas – As a BWV owner, I’m biased against any resort that is not within walking distance of a theme park. At the AKLV’s, it’s a bus or car ride to a park. However, sitting on your balcony and watching animals roam the savannah is this resort’s greatest charm and just might be worth a bus ride with sweaty, cranky WDW visitors.
Also, when staying here, I always make a point to dine at Boma for my favorite desserts, especially the Zebra Dome!
Bay Lake Tower – The BLT follows the old real estate axiom; location, location, location. Getting to the Magic Kingdom is a complicated odyssey. However, when staying at DVC’s Bay Lake Tower, the trams, the boats, and the buses can all be ignored and left to the masses. DVC guests can enjoy “The Top of the World Lounge” where members can view the MK fireworks without the hassle of the mass exodus.
Maybe the greatest benefit of the close proximity is the opportunity to make a spontaneous Dole Whip run!
Wilderness Lodge Villas – I really love the theming of these villas. Some have criticized the overall dark atmosphere, but the cool, woodsy feel and even the “geyser” make you forget you’re in Central Florida.
The DVC imagineers did well to keep the huge trees and natural brush to accent the colors of the lodge and the villas.
Old Key West – I’m going to argue that OKW’s finest attribute is its value. As you know, reservations are made by a point system. Generally speaking, it costs almost half the points to stay at OKW compared to the Grand Floridian villas. The difference becomes less pronounced with other villas, but OKW consistently gives you more bang for your point.
Saratoga Springs – The best thing about SSR hasn’t happened yet. I’m talking about the new Disney Springs aka Downtown Disney. If you believe the Disney fandom buzz, Disney Springs will be a destination point for many. Despite a new parking garage at Downtown Disney, travel by car will continue to be challenging. By staying at SSR, you’re a short boat ride or leisurely walk away.
Grand Floridian Villas – The GFV’s best feature is the Grand Floridian itself. Before DVC came to the GF, it took a nice chunk of your vacation budget to stay at the resort. Now with DVC at the GF, members can enjoy the same amenities and level of service the main hotel has been offering for years.
Boardwalk Villas– Despite not staying at my home resort in in a while, I will always consider it my sentimental home away from home. Maybe it’s the replica Stephen King “It” slide? Maybe not.
Actually, it’s the boardwalk view with endless “people watching” during the day and celebrating the magic with Illuminations at night.
Sitting on the balcony is always a high point of any Boardwalk stay and spending the extra points is money well spent.
Here’s to my next WDW DVC trip, the only question is , where? That is the DVC dilemma.
