I've stayed at the AKL three times (twice in concierge.)
The hotel wraps itself around your heart the moment you walk in from the portico. The vaulted ceiling in the lobby makes you draw in your breath -- and that gives you the opportunity to smell the wonderful spices in the air.
The staff is extremely helpful and very warm. We've had some of the best conversations with the Cast Members, many of whom are from Africa and love to talk about their homeland with joy and animation that makes me want to visit.
The rooms are spacious and have lovely carved furnishings. The double-sink is a blessing and the large closet is great.
The beds are firm and really helped my back and legs relax after a long day in the parks.
The savannah view is worth the money -- there's nothing like watching the sun rise over the animals grazing at your feet. You can even hear them crunching as they eat!
The pool has a zero entry area that's wonderful for little kids. It's worth bringing goggles just to see how well the imagineers have made the bottom of the pool look like a natural watering hole. The hot tubs are great too!
The Mara is a very nice quick service food spot with great grab-n-go options and a unique menu. Boma is hands-down one of our favorite places to eat -- don't forget to ask for the Frunch (a fantastic fruit juice!) I haven't tried Jiko yet, but people rave about it.
One tip, try to walk around and see as much of the authentic African art, textiles and artifacts as you can. Also notice the amazing light fixtures of the whole resort -- from the bathrooms, to the elevators, hallways, lobby, and restaurants.
Concierge is amazing and the Sunrise Safari is worth every penny for concierge.
Love, love, love this resort!
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My Previous Trips Sometime in the 70's with mom; 1990 honeymoon; 1994 trip with brother; 2002 Dec - POFQ; 2003 May - ASMovies; 2003 Oct - ASMovies; 2004 May - Pop; 2004 Sept - AKL; 2004 Nov - PORiverside; 2005 May - Grand Gathering #1; 2005 Dec - Mousefest w/Karen; 2006 March - DLR w/Karen; 2006 June - Beach Club w/Karen; 2006 Dec - Grand Gathering #2; 2007 Feb DLR Girls Trip; 2007 Dec - Appetizer trip/Mousfest w/CLT; 2008 Jun - CLT+2 meet the Koenigs; 2008 Dec - CLQ Broken Ankle Tribute; 2009 Mar - Unclenching at POFQ!; 2009 June - Sweating with Friends
Last edited by Caldercup; 01-09-2008 at 09:34 AM ..