By Barb Nefer
Animal Kingdom Lodge features villas.
Disney World has several hotels that feature villas, including Boardwalk, Old Key West, Saratoga Springs, the Wilderness Lodge,
beach Club and Animal Kingdom Lodge. The newest villas are the Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs and Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary
resort. The Treehouses are unique because they are stand-alone units. Although all of the villas were originally built as Disney Vacation Club accommodations, you can book them even if you're not a vacation club member, as long as there is availability. Because of their size, amenities and convenience, Disney World's villas are a popular choice.
Features
The villas at Disney World have full kitchens.
All of the Disney World villas are meant to be "homes away from home." They feature multiple rooms, including separate living, kitchen and sleeping areas. Many connect in a way that allows larger families and groups to share accommodations. Because the villas have full kitchens, including a stove and microwave, guests can save money by eating some meals in their rooms.
The Disney World villas all feature transportation to the theme parks via boats, buses or monorail. Some are within walking distance of certain theme parks. For example, you can stroll to the Magic Kingdom from Bay Lake Tower, and Boardwalk and Beach Club are within walking distance of both Epcot and Disney Hollywood Studios.
Other villa amenities include themed swimming pools, restaurants and activity rentals such as boats and bicycles. If you want to take a day or two off from the hustle and crowds at the theme parks, you can swim, rent a bike or watercraft, or simply relax in a lounge chair.
Pros and Cons
The themed pool at Saratoga Springs is typical of Disney's villas.
Extra space is one of the biggest pros of the Disney World villas. Many people book the villas for family reunions and other get-togethers. They use the kitchen to save money on meals, but also for entertaining.
Being able to walk to the theme parks from certain villas is another big plus. The transportation lines for most hotels can get long at opening and closing times. If your villa is within walking distance, you don't have to worry about the wait. If you stay at Saratoga Springs, you can take a boat to the Downtown Disney shopping area.
The villa amenities come at a price, so be prepared to pay a premium. Also, since vacation club members have first crack at reserving them, it may be difficult to get a reservation for the most popular villas during peak times.
Bottom Line
The Treehouse Villas are stand-alone units.
If you have a large family or are visiting Disney World with a group, the villas may be an excellent option. You'll have elbow room, and you'll feel at home as you cook in the kitchen or spread out in the living area and separate bedrooms. Depending on which villas you choose, you'll also love the amenities and the ease of getting to the theme parks. If you have a smaller party or are on a budget, the regular Disney hotel rooms will probably be better for you. But for those who need more space and are willing to pay for it, the villas can enhance the Disney World experience.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Kissimmee, Fla., Barb Nefer is a freelance writer with more than 20 years' experience. She is also a mental health counselor and travel agency owner. Her work has appeared in such magazines as "The Writer," "Animal Wellness," "SuperVision," "Bird Talk," "SpeciaLiving" and "Twins."
Photo Credits:
Barb Nefer
Barb Nefer
Barb Nefer
Barb Nefer
