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Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On Jan 23, 2010
    Gina 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.

    We are considering the Animal Kingdom Lodge or a studio at the Beach Club Villas as well as a third option of the Waldorf Astoria (we will have a rental car). What is the benefit of staying at a Disney Resort. Just seems the Waldorf is SOO much nicer.

    Hi Gina!

    The biggest advantage of staying in a Walt Disney World resort hotel is you'll continue to be surrounded by the magic of Disney for your entire visit.  That's especially true for the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Beach Club Villas. 

    The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great resort.  The theming is incredible.  Most guests will never have the opportunity to stay in a resort with exotic animals right outside their window if they don't do it at Walt Disney World.  The resort has great dining options; Boma is a great family buffet and Jiko is great for a quiet romantic evening.  There are a lot of activities for young guests at the resort.

    Beach Club Villas is also a great option.  Stormalong Bay is an incredible pool; in my opinion it is really a mini-water park.  My 5 year old could spend an entire vacation in Stormalong Bay.  Beach Club is located on Crescent Lake between Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios.  You can easily walk to the International Gateway of Epcot in about 5 minutes, providing easy access to the theme park and all of the great dining choices in World Showcase.  There are also great places to eat at the various resort hotels on Crescent Lake and at Disney's Boardwalk.

    Other reasons to stay on property include:
    • Extra Magic Hours
    • Assured entrance to the theme parks  - important during the busiest times of the year
    • Easy transportation to the theme parks - this has been important to my family even when we have a rental car because sometimes just a few members of the family want to leave; they can just use Disney transportation
    • Ability to make dining reservations for your entire stay at 180 days before your check-in date
    • Package Delivery
    • Ability to add on the Disney Dining  Plan
    Good luck with your decision and have a magical vacation!
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Meet the Panelist: Bernie, Maryland

I am an engineer with NASA with prior Air Force service. My wife and I have two boys, ages 13 and 8. At home, I'm known as the "Disney Guy" and I've enjoyed helping guests plan their Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and Disneyland vacations. Learn More About Bernie

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