Recollections & Restless Excitement from a DVC Resort Rookie
As a Senior Vacation Coordinator at David’s Vacation Club Rentals, one of the questions I’m asked most often is, “What is your favorite Disney Vacation Club Resort?”
While I have a theoretical answer based on deep knowledge and extensive research of the DVC properties, I have not yet had the experience of visiting any of them in person and, therefore, cannot chime in with personal anecdotes or observations.
Well, that’s mostly true.
Unbeknownst to me at the time, I actually had my first taste of a DVC Resort when I was ten years old. My family was staying at Disney’s All Star Movies Resort, a value resort at Walt Disney World with larger-than-life figures and animated embellishments such as the blade of a giant yellow Mighty Ducks hockey stick that was situated right outside of our door, which, of course, made us feel right at home as Canadians.
One night for dinner, my parents brought us to a giant cabin. At least, that’s what it looked like to us.
As kids, we were a bit disappointed that the place didn’t exude the same “Disney-ness” (yes, that’s totally a word) that we’d come to expect from the Theme Parks and our resort. However, once we were inside the lobby, our mouths dropped open.
It was massive. It was grand. There was a giant, layered fireplace that went all the way up to the ceiling!
Instinctively, we stayed close to our parents, afraid we’d get lost in the grandeur of the place as they ushered us to a rambunctious restaurant adjacent to the lobby. Now my memory’s a little foggy after a couple of decades, but I do remember that the Cast Members were particularly spirited and that my baby sister rode to the table on a wooden horse. There was also something about ketchup… a lot of ketchup.
Knowing what I do now, it’s crystal clear to me that we had dined at Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, which is now home to both Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
My family’s visit to Wilderness Lodge remains a highlight of our vacation whenever we reminisce, and I’ve since wondered what it would be like to actually stay in a Deluxe Resort at Walt Disney World.
Well, soon, that wondering will turn into wandering because I am scheduled to stay at the newly refurbished Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa this March!
Saratoga Springs is one of the most often booked DVC Resorts in our office, and I’m so excited to finally experience the property in person so I can have that first-hand knowledge to draw on when speaking with the many guests that choose to stay there.
Here are the top three things I am most excited to experience at Saratoga Springs:
- The Relaxing Atmosphere and Equestrian Décor
While I’m certainly excited to experience the hustle and bustle of the Parks, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort seems like the perfect place to wind down after a busy day. With its lush greenery and scenic views, this property seems to exude peaceful and serene vibes. Guests have access to two feature pools, including the High Rock Spring Pool, as well as three additional leisure pools. I’m not particularly a pool person, but with five to choose from, I just might be converted.
Saratoga Springs Resort has a Victorian-style design that is inspired by the spas and horse racing made famous in late 1800s Saratoga, New York. Now, my best friend is, was, and forever will be “the horse girl,” and I’ll be darned if some of that doesn’t rub off after 27+ years of friendship. As such, I’m actually super excited to take in the theming of this resort and keep an eye out for all the equestrian details and magical Disney touches.
- Its Proximity to Disney Springs
Another perk of staying at Saratoga Springs is the fact that it’s located right across the lake from Disney Springs, a place I can’t wait to explore. There are so many dining locations on my wish list, including a stop at Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC and Gideon’s Bakehouse, as well as Blaze Pizza and trying the Vegan Bratwurst at B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co.
I cannot wait to visit Disney Pin Traders to select new additions for my collections and if I end up on my murphy bed surrounded by opened mystery boxes… Well, no one would be surprised.
- The Villa Itself
Speaking of murphy beds, I am absolutely thrilled to be sharing a Studio Villa with one of my teammates and see the refurbishments in person. The kitchenette – especially the toaster, which I am so jazzed about – is going to be very handy for breakfast and late-night snacks. Plus, the balcony is going to be perfect for morning coffee and contemplation.
I can’t wait for our March trip to Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and to share our DVC adventure!
~Kristen
