Walt Disney World Spring 2022 - Part III - The Spoiled Life

#SavannaLife

I spent the first three nights of my visit at Port Orleans Riverside -- a moderate resort. The final five nights of my stay, I headed over to club level at the deluxe Animal Kingdom Lodge, which is my favourite. Upon arrival, I received the sparkly black magic band I had pre-ordered. It should be noted that this magic band was discounted, but they no longer provide resort guests with complementary magic bands.

Black sparkly magic band

Club level rooms at the AKL are Savanna View, so you get to see the animals, they all have balconies, and are wonderfully themed and comfortable. The shower toiletries are in a dispenser again, so more environmentally friendly, and there are lots of towels, coffee, and tea provided.

Coffee maker

Table for two

Comfy bed

I didn't use the second bed

Aside from the well-appointed, appropriately decorated rooms, club level guests also get access to the Kilimanjaro Lounge. Staffed by concierges and wait staff, this is the hub of a club stay. You check in at the desk, and are helped by the staff there. Sometimes, they can work miracles: for example, I tried for ages to get a reservations for Space 220, and failed. The desk staff got me in.

Also, you can drop in to the club any time when it's open (usually 7am to 10pm, I think), and get snacks, and beverages. In the morning and evening, snacks includes some hot food, and fairly nice light-bite type options.  I made it my habit to grab some smoked salmon, yogurt, and fruit for breakfast each morning. The evening offerings include hot hors d'oeuvres and frequently tasting spoons as well. They also offered wonderful cheese selections, and other options. The beverages include soft drinks, coffee, tea, waters, and beer, wine, and liqueurs.

Unlimited sparkling water! 😍

There were always free tables

Specialty coffee

The pool at Jambo House (the main AKL building), is lovely, and offers zero entry, as well as a slide. There is a pool bar, towels freely available, and lots of loungers. There are also a few hot tubs scattered about the periphery. The effect is tropical, and inviting.

Of course, the main attraction for the Animal Kingdom Lodge is all the animals. Apart from the in-room viewing from the balcony, there are many outlooks and overlooks to see the animals.

The flamingos are just off to the side of the pool

It was a lovely stay, but all good things must come to an end. And so, I had to check out, and grab an Uber to the airport. Fortunately, I have lounge access from my Amex card, so getting there early isn't an issue. I can relax, and start my flight off right.

Nice sparkling wine

Airport lounge bar

I was booked on Premium Rouge again to come home.  Air Canada has been having its issues lately, but they weren't evident on this flight. I had the traditional extra space, comfy seat, and excellent service I have come to expect. The catering was good, and they even had mimosas. All in all, the perfect end to a great trip.

Next: New Orleans 2022