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  • On May 30, 2010
    Michelle from OH Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    AKL or Polynesian?? We have booked our 1st trip to WDW at AKL, and dont know whether to switch to the Poynesian? Worry about the bus rides from AKL to MK and other parks. We do love the idea of viewing the animals for our 3 young children. Any advice?

    Hi, Michelle! Congratulations on your first trip to WDW...and what a great decision to have to make! I love helping families try to pick exactly what they're looking for in a resort.

    Before I get into the details, please remember that both resorts will take your breath away. From the restaurants, pools, amenities and service, you are going to love them equally. So, we're trying to help you decide between fantastic and wonderful. Now, let's break it down.

    The greatest thing about the Polynesian is the close proximity to the Magic Kingdom. It's only a monorail or a boat ride away. If you're into nostalgia, it's one of only two original resorts to WDW opening in 1971, and it's home to a couple of great dining options...'Ohana's and the Kona Cafe.

    The Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House and Kidani Village) are newer resorts with the most amazing feature -- animals living on a savanna right outside your room.  It's like staying in a park! Jiko-The Cooking Place, Boma-Flavors of Africa and Sanaa are 3 of my favorite restaurants in WDW. Although you do have to take the buses to the parks, I found it to be convenient and not a considerable distance to the MK (less than 30 minutes).

    I think the only advantage the Polynesian would have over AKL would be if your children are all still in strollers, and you could board the monorail without having to collapse multiple strollers each time. That way, you would have easier access to the MK and Epcot -- but not to the other 2 parks since you would have to ride buses there from the Poly, also.

    Since it's your first trip and you have 3 young children, I may have to give my nod to the Poly if that is an option for you to change your reservations. You just have to come back and stay at AKL...or at least plan a dinner there at one of the restaurants to see what it's like. I hope I've helped you make a decision. Let me know if I can answer more questions! Have a wonderful day and a magical vacation!
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Meet the Panelist: Andi, Alabama

Anchors aweigh! Time to set sail aboard Disney Cruise Line, and I'm just the mom to help you navigate the waters of planning. From stem to stern to ports of call, I'll show you the ropes of pixie-dusted vessels filled with magic and adventure. Learn More About Andi

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