Ask the Resident Disney Cast Member [Archive]

udsweetpea

06-26-2005, 02:29 PM

I have found the slow times to be the week right before Christmas, September, October, and January (but not New Year's). Those are also some of the cooler months as well.

I checked out the Star Wars Weekends this year for the first time, and I'd be disappointed with them if it I were a big fan and came there especially for that. They go on mostly during May, which is quite crowded and hot.

As far as recommendations on where to stay, I strongly suggest staying on Disney property instead of a hotel outside of the gates. My suggestions for each category...

Value- All-Star Sports (a little cheesy but good if you're on a budget)
Moderate- Port Orleans Riverside (very relaxed atmosphere with a river going through the property.. a boat can take you over to Downtown Disney, which is very relaxing.. not as many little kids)
Deluxe- Wilderness Lodge (if you love the Pacific Northwest feeling) or BoardWalk (1940s Atlantic City theme)

This goes for anyone... I can get a 40% discount for friends (and I consider you all friends) on any resort (as long as there is availability) if you're comfortable giving me your credit card number/expiration date. But I completely understand if you're not comfortable with that. Just thought I'd throw out the offer.

And the thing about Tigger, he's a real live tiger, not a person ;) so I believe his genitalia (or lack there of) is in the correct place ;)

MrsWilson

06-26-2005, 05:50 PM

Thanks for the info! We stayed at Port Orleans Riverside in April and it was wonderful. I loved how relaxed it was and the river was so pretty!

Glad to know we are better off planning our trip when the crowd and weather are better than for the Star Wars Weekend. Our anniversary is in October so maybe one year we can plan for a trip!

Oh, and when we were down there, we chaperoned on GradNite. It was the best experience of the whole trip. Well, except all the kids that decided to get into fights. I loved not having strollers run me over! We never waited in line for any of the rides and the fireworks at midnight were wonderful! One of my favorite pictures was of just that!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d823b3127cce91a7a0f85b0a00000015108ActHDNi1YuI

Another question, how long are all the decorations going to be on Cinderella's castle? I heard they are temporary.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d823b3127cce91a7a04c5bbe00000016108ActHDNi1YuI

You got any more hints or helpful advice? I love Disney! DH thought I was a complete nutcase because I had to take a picture of every character I saw! I think it is a great Idea for you to have a thread!

udsweetpea

06-26-2005, 06:21 PM

GradNite sounds awesome! The thought of no strollers excites me to no end!

I'd say the decorations on Cinderella's Castle will be up at least until next May. There's no way they're going to be permanent. I've found not a lot of people like these decorations. :confused:

Right now, I'm in the middle of eating dinner, but I'll post more tips and everything later :)

bellaprincess

06-27-2005, 07:42 AM

Hi Andrea ,
Don't know if you remember me, but I posted in your WC journals a couple of times! Hope you're doing good!

So my question is, what is the best day to go the parks right now?

I know they are busy right now ( like everything else here in O-town!), but my BF and I would like to go on the least busy weekday.

Thanks! :)

udsweetpea

06-27-2005, 08:10 AM

Right now, it seems like every day in the parks in a busy, crowded day. The only thing I can suggest is to not go on the weekend because that's when the locals come. But the weekdays are still really busy :( I can't wait for September and near empty parks!

Hope you're doing well yourself :D

DisneyPrincess

06-27-2005, 08:29 AM

udsweetpea
I guess I will give it a try over here for awhile. We got back from our vacation yesterday. Had a great time, I miss my family already! I have to go back to work today so need to run for now. ;)

Sha259

06-27-2005, 08:32 AM

mindy

06-27-2005, 08:44 AM

Hi,

Subscribing we are planning on a trip hopefully next year so need all the help I can get.

udsweetpea

06-27-2005, 09:21 AM

udsweetpea

06-27-2005, 09:26 AM

Hi Andrea,

How cool to have our own resident WDW tour guide. I wanted to go to Disney this year but my schedule wouldn't allow it. But I would LOVE to go within the next two years. I have some questions that maybe you can help me out with.

1) When is the cheapest season to go?

2) Which of the Moderately priced Disney hotels is the best (location and/or room condition)?

3) I have never been to FL, so whats the best season to go down, weather wise?

Thanks in advance for all the answers!

As to your 40% off discount...MAN that is tempting :p

Hi there! Here's the answers to your questions...

1) Value season is generally January 1- Feb 12, August 24-October 1, and November 2-December 19 (those were 2003 Value times, but they should be about the same)

2) My personal recommendation for a Moderate resort is Port Orleans Riverside. Room rates there during Value season are $133-148. I think its a beautiful resort. It has a river that goes over to Downtown Disney, so you can take a nice, relaxing boat ride over there. The rooms are all located around the main building, where the gift shop, restaurants, and food court are located. I've stayed there 4 times, and I love it!

3) Weather wise, I think the end of November is perfect... not so hot during the day, a little chilly at night. Plus, if you go right after Thanksgiving, the Christmas decorations are up but the parks are pretty slow.

If you have any other questions, let me know!

udsweetpea

06-27-2005, 09:27 AM

Hi,

Subscribing we are planning on a trip hopefully next year so need all the help I can get.

Mindy, let me know if you ever have any questions. I'll be glad to help!

1MegMeg

06-27-2005, 10:25 AM

Yay! I've never "known" a disney cast member before. :) I live (and grew up) 90 minutes away from WDW and have always had annual passes, so we've been literally 100s of times, but there are always more questions I have.

1. Do you know anything about the new Passholder Best Rate Program? It's the new program where annual passholders book their resort rooms online at least 120 days out (1 night room deposit is non-refundable). I am wondering how it is going to affect the current "call-in" annual passholder and florida resident rates. Are the regular call in discount rates going to be availabe still?

2. Of all the times we've been to WDW, we have't yet seen Wishes. I am hoping to remedy that when we go in September. Where's the best place to see it from both in the park and out of the park (I heard you can see it from the beach at the Polynsesian).

Thank you so much for starting this thread and taking the opportunity to answer our questions! :D

udsweetpea

06-27-2005, 10:38 AM

1MegMeg Hi there! I looked on the Cast Portal to find info about the Passholder Best Rate program, and I couldn't find anything. I'll be on the look out for some information for you. I haven't even heard one thing about it.

The best place to see the fireworks inside the park, in my opinion, is right in front of Cinderella Castle. Good places to see the fireworks outside of the park are on the beach at Polynesian (like you mentioned) and California Grill (restaurant on top of the Contemporary). They pipe the music in so you feel like you're right there. I hope you get to see Wishes soon... they are fabulous and very magical ;)

1MegMeg

06-27-2005, 10:42 AM

Andrea, thanks so much! And thank you so much for your offer to lend us your 40% rate for rooms. We already have our reservations for September and November, but I might just take you up on your offer for January. :)

I can't wait to see Wishes!!

mindy

06-27-2005, 10:42 AM

cantwait

06-27-2005, 10:46 AM

udsweetpea

06-27-2005, 10:47 AM

Hi,

I am going to be taking my two daughters they will be 5 and 7 I was thinking of staying at the allstar movie resort do you think that would be okay? Also I am wondering where the best place for me to get the tickets would be and whats the best way to try to get the reservations to eat breafast with the princesses I think it's at cinderella's castle.

Thank

All Star Movies is great for kids that age! The pools are awesome, and the food court is so convenient! The best place to get tickets would be to get them at the front desk when you check in. If you want to get them beforehand, you can check out the Disney Store. I think they still sell the tickets there.

It's next to impossible to get a priority seating at Cinderella's Royal Table unless you call exactly 3 months in advance really early in the morning when the reservations office first opens. However, you can also eat breakfast with the princesses at Norway in EPCOT. Another option is 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian for dinner (where I work ;)). It's a dinner buffet with Cinderella, Prince Charming, Suzy, Perla, and the Fairy Godmother.

mindy

06-27-2005, 10:57 AM

Thank you so much for the information I am definately going to try for the breakfast but I will definately go to where you work to have dinner with them do I need to make reservations?

Thanks

camberne

06-27-2005, 11:27 AM

Awesome offer!! My husband has never been down to Disney and I have been wanting to take him at least to Epcot, because I think he'd enjoy that. (He's not a big amusement park guy, but a science oriented guy.) I've always wanted to stay in the park, but it never really sat well with my budget. If not this October, then I'm planning on next October... which is our anniversary month. Probably next year, though. You're not planning on changing jobs anytime soon, are you?

MidwesternGal

06-27-2005, 11:48 AM

Well how crazy is THIS--I did the Disney College Program while I was in college!!!! Goodness gracious, this brings back memories. I hung out/worked at the wonderful Sunshine Season Food Fair in the Land Pavilion at Epcot.

Where in the parks do you work Andrea? Did you start out as a CP, or are you on the entertainment/management side of it?

Craziness!!

Nice to meet you! :D

Amy

chefker

06-27-2005, 07:23 PM

This is soo cool! Glad to have someone with WDW knowledge on board here. :)

Well, here's my dilemma--I'm PG right now, and DH is ALREADY wanting to plan a trip for the WHOLE family to Magic Kingdom (Whole family as in the 3 of us AND all our parents....oy). Yes, I know, I gave him one of these ----> :rolleyes: Anyway, I really don't think we'll be taking our kid until they're at LEAST 3 or 4. Preferably 4 going on 5, really.

What's your experience with little kids at the parks? Do you think there's a certain age group that really 'gets it' and appreciates what they're seeing? My first trip there wasn't until I was 12, but I had a HUGE appreciation for everything--of course being tall enough to go on ALL the rides certainly helped! I guess my point is, I know the Mouse HUGELY caters to little kids, but I don't see where an infant would enjoy themselves.

Rose

06-27-2005, 08:55 PM

Do you get any type of discounts at Disneyland?

bijouparvin

06-28-2005, 09:00 AM

Hiya! Just wanted to check in and say that I worked at DL (CA) for a few years and DH currently works for Disney Theatrical (they do the B'Way shows) so if there are any west coast or B'way questions that come up, feel free to send them my way, too. I loved working for the company. They're very loyal and the perks are great!

magrat

06-29-2005, 09:37 AM

I would definitely take you up on the discount if I hadn't already booked! Oh well, I'll have to be content with the free dining plan I got :) We're going at the end of September and staying at Port Orleans Riverside because of all the good reviews. I'm just gearing up to make all my advance reservations now, it was so fun picking out all the places to eat.

I found two great websites to do more research (and god knows all of us on here love doing that!)

http://www.allearsnet.com - they have reviews and menus and tons of info

http://www.disboards.com - msg board for people travelling to Disney World. I love the restaurant forum :) There's a thread with a sticky there which is all pictures of Disney food ::drool:: Sure looks a lot better than it did when I was a kid!

udsweetpea

06-29-2005, 10:13 AM

Hey girls! I've been swamped with moving and working, but I promise I'll be back to answer all of your questions soon!

LauraPerg

06-29-2005, 01:18 PM

Hi Udsweetpea, so glad to come across some Disney fanatics like me and my family.

I have been to WDW about every other summer since I was 2 (I'm not kidding, and we still can't get enough), but we decided to go during the first week of Dec. this year to see the Christmas decorations. We are all really looking forward to the cool weather, and hopefully not very crowded parks.

Anyways, my whole fam. is going (Mom, Dad, brother, SIL, two nieces (4 and 2 years old), me and DH. We have tix to the Verry Merry Christmas Party and I was looking for any tips you may have on seeing the parades, fireworks (are there fireworks included??) and when to ride the rides. I know you're busy, but I'll be looking forward to some advice on this new experience.

Thanks for sharing the knowledge!!

Sha259

06-30-2005, 07:49 AM

udsweetpea Sorry to come back so late after you answered my questions, but THANKS!! You are a doll for giving all this info. I think we will plan our Disney Vacation for next Nov!! :)

Kristibell

06-30-2005, 09:41 AM

I have a question about Disneyland in CA - Does anyone know when their holiday season starts? I'm trying to plan a trip down there while the holiday decorations are up and the festivites are going on, but I want to make sure we go while it's not busy, before the kids are out on winter break, etc.

Do they start the day after Thanksgiving or before, and how long does the holiday season run?

Thanks,
Kristine

udsweetpea

06-30-2005, 04:27 PM

Thank you so much for the information I am definately going to try for the breakfast but I will definately go to where you work to have dinner with them do I need to make reservations?

Thanks

Awww... you don't have to come to Park Fare just for me ;) I would suggest reservations for the restaurant. Walk-ins are usually quoted about an hour wait time. Last night, we were quoting a 3 hour wait, and they still stayed :confused:

camberne Hi! :) I'm not planning on switching jobs anytime soon, so whenever you'd like to start making reservations, just let me know!

MidwesternGal Small world! I did the College Program too! I did it in the summer of 2003. I came back May 2004 as a part-time server, and I've been working at several restaurants on property ever since. Right now, I'm at 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian.

chefker Hi there! First off, congrats on being PG! As far as taking kids to Disney, they really start understanding and appreciaiting everything when they are 4 or 5. I'm not really sure if you'd enjoy yourself if you brought your infant. With diaper bags, strollers, and constant demand of your attention, I think you'd get exhausted, but that's for you to decide if that's right for you and your baby. My biggest advice on bringing kids is to follow the same routine they have at home. For example, if they normally take a nap at 3pm, then its best to go back to the resort for a nap and go back to the parks later. They get so exhausted if they don't follow the same routine.

Rose I'm not really sure if I get discounts at Disneyland or not. I can ask around for you.

bijouparvin Thank you for your help! I love working for the company too! I always dreamed of being a cast member!

magrat Those are great Disney resource websites! I've barely had a chance to check them out. I bet you're so excited to be planning your trip to Disney World. You made an excellent choice with PO Riverside. If you need any help or have any questions about which restaurants to go to, let me know!

LauraPerg Hi there! Unfortunately, I've never had the opportunity to check out Very Merry Christmas, so I can't really give you an accurate answer to your questions. I know you'll have a very magical time in Disney during the holidays. The Christmas decorations are beautiful, and you can't beat the cooler weather! So sorry I couldn't answer your questions.

Sha259 You are very welcome! If you need any help planning, let me know!

Kristibell I'm so sorry, but I'm not that knowledgeable about Disneyland's holiday season. Maybe one of our former DL cast members will be able to answer that for you.

Sorry I've taken so long to get back to all of you. I'm here if you have anymore questions.

cantwait

06-30-2005, 05:40 PM

Andrea, did you see my post near the top of the page? I was really curious about your opinions...thanks in advance!

udsweetpea

06-30-2005, 06:00 PM

Hi Andrea! Thanks for answeing all our questions re: Disney. I LOVE Disney and have been several times but this October, I'll be going down for my best friend's wedding (I'm the MOH). It's at the Wedding Pavilion and the reception (after a lot of hassle) is at the Grand Floridian. Believe me, I can tell you as much as you want to know about Disney Weddings! She has not had a very good experience with her planner (I can't believe, only 8 planners do 7,000 weddings a year!) but is very much looking forward to the big day (October 9).

Yay! When the time comes, I want to plan my own Disney wedding, so I'll definitely be hunting you down for all the info you have!! :D

Anyway, we are going for the first time with our son (he's going to be 16 mos) and I wanted to know your thoughts re: young kids and park hopping. What are some definite dos and don't dos that you've seen?

As far as dos and don't dos, as I've mentioned before, keep them on their regular schedule/routine. By the end of the day, they're exhausted (obviously) if they aren't on the same routine they are on at home. Since I don't have kids myself, I can't really offer much advice on what not to do and what to do. There are strollers there to rent, so you can leave your stroller back at the room if you wish.

Also, we will be staying on property for 2 nights (Sat & Sun) and I wanted to know about transportation - is it easy to get shuttle buses? We have the rehearsal dinner at the Polynesian Sat. night and the wedding Sunday at noon, and I need to travel separately from my DH and DS (who is the ringbearer). Is it worth the extra $250+ to stay at the Grand Floridian? We are really tight on funds since I am a SAHM.

Where are you staying on property? Honestly, I wouldn't spend the extra money to stay at the Grand. But if you're worried about transportation, the Grand is in walking distance of both the Wedding Pavilion and the Polynesian. What would work best is to take a bus to the Magic Kingdom and then take the monorail to the Grand or Polynesian. But I don't know what kind of transportation the bride has already planned for. Sometimes they will rent Disney busses to transport the wedding party to and from their resorts.

So sorry I didn't see your post before. Hope this information helps! If there's anything else, please let me know!

ETA- You went to UD? As in University of Delaware?

cantwait

06-30-2005, 07:12 PM

ETA- You went to UD? As in University of Delaware?

Yes, one and the same. It's funny to find someone else from DE on the boards, I live in Kentucky now and I'm usually the only person from Delaware that anyone has ever met! I went to St. Mark's HS in Wilmington and majored in Psych at UD - lived in Russell Hall freshman year and then moved to the Apts. at Pinebrook. I did research in Dr. Izard's lab. I was only there three years because I graduated early (98).

Thanks for all the help! I'd be more than happy to answer any Disney wedding questions, my BF has kept me in the loop. I will warn you though, she is VERY frustrated with the whole process right now! I know it will be an amazing day though. I can't wait.

BTW, I think we'll be staying at All-Star Movies...I haven't booked yet. Do you know if your discount is the same that wedding guests get? It's $100.57/night for that resort (includes tax). The Caribbean Beach is $141.61/night and the Grand is $260.91/night. I thought the ASM price was pretty good but I'd be more than happy to take you up on your discount if the offer is still available! We have to save money, what with traveling with the little munchkin of course.

Thanks again for your help and advice!

udsweetpea

06-30-2005, 07:47 PM

I put in a random day in October because I don't know when you'll be here, but here are the rates I can get with my discount

All-Star Movies Standard Room Location- $52.22/night
All-Star Movies Preferred Room Location- $60.32/night
Caribbean Beach Standard View- $89.66/night
Caribbean Beach Water View- $99.68/night
Grand Floridian Garden View- $233.48

Let me know which days you're coming so I can more accurately give you some rates. And if you'd like to know the rates of any other Disney resorts, let me know!

Hope this helps!

chefker

06-30-2005, 07:51 PM

Thanks for answering my many kid-related questions, Andrea! :) Yeah, the idea of lugging strollers/carriers around the park SO does not thrill me...I think 4 is the bare minimum age I could handle hauling a kid and all their paraphrenalia around WDW.

Of course, if this ends up being a WHOLE family vacation--complete with my parents and the in-laws--I'm already plotting to hit all the rides with FIL (a roller coaster/ride fanatic like me), and make motion-sick hubby watch the
kid(s). Hah!

Good advice on keeping the kids on their same schedule while on vacation, that they're on at home--I never thought of that!

cantwait

06-30-2005, 07:53 PM

Thanks Andrea! I just sent you a PM.

udsweetpea

06-30-2005, 08:01 PM

Thanks! I just sent you one back.

bethnjim

07-01-2005, 06:30 AM

I love Disney World and I am pea green with envy that you get to work there! It is so magical and perfect. We went one year and it was raining a few days and we still had the best time!!

MrsWilson

07-01-2005, 09:11 AM

What is your opinion on Animal Kingdom? I've heard it isn't as much fun as the other parks.

Do you have any pictures you've taken to share with us?

1MegMeg

07-01-2005, 09:35 AM

Hi Andrea - How far in advance would I need to let you know if we wanted to use your cast member room discount? We are most likely going in January, which I know is value/slower season.... :) Thank you!

angelraven

07-01-2005, 09:46 AM

Hi Andrea! I've seen you around the other site but I'm not sure we have ever talked. Thanks so much for starting this thread and answering all of our questions. It's really generous of you to offer us your discount as well!

DH and I went to Disney World last year for our HM. It was my first time there and we both had a blast! It was so fun to get to be a kid again. We stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter for two nights, Carribbean Beach for one night, and Old Key West for three nights. DH's uncle has one of the time share deals there so he gave us the three nights at OKW for our present, which was so nice. Then Port Orleans only had two nights available, hence the reason why we stayed in three places! LOL At least we got to check out multiple resorts at once! hehe Port Orleans was my favorite. We did walk up to Riverside and ride the boat on the river, which was quite relaxing. What are the differences in the rooms between French Quarter and Riverside?

We were wanting to go again this year for our anniversary, but I'm in school the week before and then the week after we have to help MIL move. Plus, I'm not working so money is a little tight right now. Therefore, we'll be waiting until September or so. Well, I want to go in September. DH is thinking of waiting until November or December. What are the temperatures like in Nov and Dec? Is it still warm enough to ride the water rides? We would be going early december to miss the holiday season so the rates would be cheaper.

We may be taking you up on your discount offer. It's too hard to pass up! What would be the difference in the rates in September vs. early December? Which do you think is the better time to go?

Have you ridden the new ride at Epcot? Soaring I think it's called? Was that any fun? Does MGM still have the Indiana Jones show? That was DH's favorite. Then we spent our whole last day shopping for an Indiana Jones had at Downtown Disney Marketplace. LOL We never found one, so if you know where we should go next time to get one, that would be great, too.

Again, thank you so much for your help!!!

udsweetpea

07-01-2005, 10:30 AM

bethnjim Awww... I'm so glad you still had a good time, despite the rain!

MrsWilson Animal Kingdom isn't my personal favorite because I'm not much of an animal person, but my boyfriend loves it! It's fun as long as you make it fun. If you go, I definitely recommend the 3-D show in the tree (believe its called Bug Life 3-D or something like that.. can you tell I've only been once?), the Festival of the Lion King, the safari, and the Kali River Rapids. I have a lot of pictures to share with all of you. Maybe I'll start another thread for my pictures.

1MegMeg Hi! I don't really need any advance notice. They can take cast member reservations with 3 days notice, but the only disadvantage of waiting is that you might not get the resort or room type you'd like because they only reserve a certain amount of rooms for cast discounts. So, just let me know when you're ready.

angelraven Oh wow, I've always wanted to stay at OKW. How was it? There really aren't any differences in the rooms between PO Riverside and French Quarter... just a different theme. I believe the rooms are the same size. The temperatures in November and December can vary. During the day, the temperature could be anywhere from 40-70 degrees. I suggest sweatshirts ;) But it still can be warm enough to go on water rides. I checked out random days in September and December at PO French Quarter at the rate was the same... around $90/night. I think they're both great times to go. If you go in September, the parks can be practically empty, but its still hot. If you go in the first few weeks of December, the parks aren't crowded, the Christmas decorations are up, and the days are cooler. I have been on Soarin' in EPCOT, and I loved it! It's a lot of fun and definitely worth the hour I waited for it! Disney-MGM Studios still has the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular show. I've never seen an Indiana Jones hat, but I would assume they're somewhere near the show at a gift shop.

Well girls, I must start cleaning the apartment!

1MegMeg

07-01-2005, 10:44 AM

Andrea - Thanks! What is the cancellation policy? Not that I plan on, at all, having to cancel, but sometimes life happens, you know? I know that I'll give you my cc# to make the reservation, if something happened and I had to cancel would you be able to cancel? Thanks so much! :)

angelraven

07-01-2005, 11:24 AM

OKW was really nice. The service was great. We just stayed in a normal hotel-type room, and for the extra cost, I really don't think it was that much better than Port Orleans. I can see spending the extra money on one of the apartments if the whole family was there, but not for just a couple. However, they did find out it was our HM, so one day when we went back to our room to clean up before going to Pleaure Island, Mickey and Minnie left a signed photo of them in wedding attire along with a wedding figurine which was really cute and sweet. I was disappointed we were gone because I wonder if they had the characters bring it. I wanted my picture taken with them. LOL Plus, there is a golf course there as well, but DH didn't get to take advantage because there's just SO much stuff to do at the parks.

I'll talk to DH and see when he wants to go. I'd personally rather go when it's hot. I can't stand cold weather, and anything below 65 is cold to me. lol Though the Christmas decorations would be nice to see. Decisions, decisions!

Thanks for your help!

Sabrina

07-01-2005, 11:59 AM

Hi Andrea,

As I think I have told you before, I love WDW! :) How often do you visit the parks strictly for pleasure?

Sabrina (Sept05_Bride on WC)

mrsliby2004

07-01-2005, 12:15 PM

Subscribing!! I'm going ot talk to DH and see if we can make a trip soon!!

gayle

07-01-2005, 03:05 PM

Hi Andrea!

You might not be able to answer this since it is a question about Disneyland, but figured I'd ask anyway.

We always get annual passes as we like to go several times a year. So, last time we went my DH was wonderng if there are any behind the scenes tours that we could go on.

Do you know if the parks offer anything like that?

allison

07-01-2005, 06:24 PM

Gayle,
I know there's a Walk In Walt's Footsteps tour. It's about 3 hours long and comes with lunch.
"The Red Carpet Experience" tour. Is about 2 hours long.
And a "Discover the Magic" tour.

I've heard of the Walk In Walt's tour before but not the others. Here's where I found the info:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/disneyland/plan/tours.htm

Hope that helps some!

*allison

claribella

07-01-2005, 08:36 PM

I'm a big Disney fanatic. I have a Disneyland Annual Pass and go to Disneyland/California Adventure every week. I do the Disney Pin Trading and have almost 300 pins in my collection.

I don't have any questions for ya, not yet.

I was at D-land for May 5th and the Fireworks show is spectacular! Just had to say that :)

OH an the Aladdin show is wonderful too. I think I've seen it about 7 times now!

I would LOVE to go to DisneyWorld some day, and take my son. That and take Disney Cruise. I plan too someday.

gayle

07-01-2005, 08:51 PM

Thanks Allison, I'll check out that link!

tinkerbelljenny

07-05-2005, 11:07 PM

I love this thread. Thanks Andrea for all your advice! I love anything Disney. We went to WDW right before Thanksgiving, we had an amazing time. Can't wait to go back.

BethElena

07-06-2005, 06:10 AM

Hello! Please let me know what you think about these resorts. I can trade my mom's time share week for any of these (if available):

Disney's Beach Club Villas
Disney's BoardWalk Villas
Disney's Old Key West Resort
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

I REALLY hope somebody is willing to exchange one of these for us next year or year after....

DallasLady

07-06-2005, 06:34 AM

Wow! How cool to find this thread!

I just became a part-time travel agent and I am completing the Disney College of Knowledge right now. How cool that you work at Disney (That's my dream). That 40% discount must be nice, I wish I could offer my clients that!

I have been to Disney many times myself, but I will definitely stop by to ask you questions. I can't wait to finish the College of Knowledge and get my graduate ears :D

ManteoChik

07-06-2005, 01:20 PM

BethElena I just wanted to chime in and say that The Boardwalk is my favorite place to stay. We go a couple of times a year and try to stay somewhere new each time. The last time we were at the Boardwalk it was the week before Christmas and the decorations were amazing. They had a HUGE village made out of all kinds of chocolate in the lobby. The Boardwalk is my favorite. We always stay in one of the suites that has the kitchen and two bedrooms because there are usually about 6 of us and while it is more expensive you definatly save more money just by being able to do things like eat breakfast in the room every morning or cook dinner a couple nights and even do your laundry with the washer and dryer in the room. They do have suites that are only one bedroom with a pullout couch. I also like the way the Boardwalk is close to everything....not too much traveling involved. I also really love the pool there.

I also really like the Wilderness Lodge....I wasn't too sure about it when we booked it, but once we got there is was great. Again we were out in the Villas with a suite but it was so quiet out there. All the rooms are the same size at every resort, just decorated with a different theme. I thought it would be a pain to be farther away but it's really not that bad because you travel on the disney busses anyway. The wilderness Lodge is also great because you can do other activities like book a horseback riding trail ride or go boating.

If you're wanting to stick with one of the places you posted I would suggest the Boardwalk!

lindybug

07-06-2005, 01:25 PM

udsweetpea ~ You are so sweet for offering up this thread! We just got back from 10 days at the Grand in May, but I'm already itching to get back down there!

BethElena ~ I'll chime in too... Of those you mentioned, I would suggest the Boardwalk or Beach Club. DH and I stayed at the BW for part of our honeymoon, and it is amazing. Great location and theme! We've never stayed at the Beach Club, but we have visited there many times. The Villas look great, and the pool there is amazing. One plus for the BC is that is has a better selection of restaurants there than the BW, in my opinion. But, you really can't go wrong with either. Have fun!

angelcookie2002

07-06-2005, 02:46 PM

I thought I'd try to answer some of your questions, hope Andrea dosn't mind. My DH is a cast member and I used to be a cast member at DL. We just moved about 15mins from WDW, we used to live about 15mins from Disneyland (DL). As a cast members spouse I get inside info too, as well as the discounts.

Bethelena- Lets see the boardwalk and beach club are both within walking distance of epcot. They both have an old fashioned New England type theme. With the Beach Club, where DH works, having a beachy theme with a sand bottom pool and the boardwalk located right on the boardwalk where there are several shops and restaurants. Both old key west and saritoga are located near downtown disney, so transportation to the parks takes a little longer. Saritoga is still being completed so there is construction in some parts of the resort. I would suggest either the boardwalk or beach club because the location is better. However, I would advise you to check into the availability as soon as possible. The vacation club rooms tend to fill quickly so I would suggest planning as far ahead as possible especially if you are planning to stay during a peak season. Boardwalk and Beach Club tend to fill up first, leaving you with Old key West and Saritoga.

Gayle- I hear Walk in Walts Footsteps is amazing. I only wish I would have gone on it before we moved. There is also a new family tour if you are planning on taking children.

Someone asked awhile ago about the new AP holder reservation system. It looks like it will be all online now, no more phone calls. They are also implimenting this for cast members, unless it is for large parties or really long stays. And it also looks like the 120 days will be manditory, no last minute discounts. They might have special rates through december until the new system is up and running.

DisneyPrincess

07-06-2005, 08:53 PM

angelcookie2002 -
Glad to see you made it over here. I got back from FL and the WC boards where a mess, I hated it. Glad we all made it over here. I like this much better. :D

jeeplover

07-07-2005, 12:44 PM

I just saw this thread and thought I would stop by to say hello! I used to be a Disney cast member back in the day and I loved it! I miss it so much down there!

BethElena

07-08-2005, 10:24 AM

Thank you ladies for the imput! i'm going to put my mom right on it to check into switching (my name won't go on timeshare deed until i'm married in August so that we don't have to go through the whole lawyer thing of changing names!!)

Is the Boardwalk the one that has the ferry's over to the transportation depot? I forget...I haven't been to the part since 1999.

claribella

07-08-2005, 02:29 PM

FYI! I'm riding the newly opened Space Mountain at Disneyland tomorrow! yeah!

PrincessTommi

07-10-2005, 10:26 AM

I can volunteer to answer questions/help plan as well!

I did the College Program Fall 2000. I worked Merchandise at the main entrance at Disney MGM Studios - places like Sid's, Oscar's, Crossroads, etc. I met DH that semester, he worked at the Emporium.

We went there on our honeymoon, of course - 4 nights at Animal Kingdom Lodge, and a 3 night Disney Wonder cruise. It was an amazing trip! Last March (04), we did a week at Old Key West in a 2-bedroom villa with family. 6 adults, one 3 year old. I had never been to WDW before picking up and moving there, so the family trip was definitely a new experience.

Due to my very generous ILs, we are now owners of Disney Vacation Club at the Boardwalk Villas. We're planning our first trip *Home* in October for the Food and Wine Festival. I'm in full planning mode right now since it's almost time to start making ARs.

When DH graduates (next May!), I plan on sending him back down there to do an Advanced Internship. If we could swing it, I would love to do one as well, but we'll see. We both loved working for Disney, and will hopefully get back and live and work there. It feels like home to *us*, since that's where we met.

claribella

07-10-2005, 11:02 PM

Space Mountain = AWESOME!!

IT WAS PHENOMENAL The music is better, the effects are better and BOY is it FASTER! I was very impressed.

Just had to throw that out :)

Oh and if we are talking about tours. I just took the VMK tour this past Saturday and it was really good. We got to ride Haunted Mansion, ThunderMountain Railroad and Jungle Cruise as part of the tour. They stopped the whole line just to let us 14 people in. That gave me such a VIP feeling :)

I know there are more tours. I'm talking about Disneyland BTW. Not WDW. I would LOVE to go to WDW some day.

Anyway, tours for Disneyland, here is a list of the Disneyland tours (http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/parks/listing?name=DisneylandParkToursListingPage) And I know that the Dark Side of Disney Tour is returning to Disneyland in November...that should be good!

Darin's Girl

07-11-2005, 07:51 PM

I don't have any questions for you yet..... just wanted to say that I am SO jealous that you work at WDW!! DH and I went there on our HM in 9/2003 (his 1st visit, my 3rd) and I created a Disney Monster! LOL We plan on working there when we retire.

Before 9/11 (I got laid off) I was a travel agent specializing in Disney Vacations. DallasLady I got my ears! I still *sneek* into the agent site to check things out. :D

jenn0911

07-14-2005, 09:06 AM

Hi! My DH and I just took our 2 DD's to Disneyland in May and now we can't wait to take them to WDW. We were look at the All Star (Pop Culture) . My oldest will be starting school this year and I am wondering if any of the school breaks times are better than others (Feb, April, June-Aug)?

nordey

07-15-2005, 02:47 PM

Hi Andrea! I know another poster already asked and you said you didn't know but I was wondering if you've found out if your 40% discount applies to the California Disney properties?

We are planning a trip the first week in December to celebrate my mom's 50th b-day (as well as Disneyland's 50th). I'm hoping to get an annual passport discount at the Grand Californian but I've heard that with the 50th anniversary this year things get booked so far in advance they are sometimes not offering the AP discounts.

laurenc

07-19-2005, 07:15 AM

oh wow, i am so excited to have found this thread! just yesterday DH and i decided we want to go to WDW for maybe 6-7 days sometime in the first half of september. my family used to go there almost every other summer, and the last time i was there was in the summer of 1994 when i was 15. i miss it! tom went twice but doesn't remember much. so we are both so psyched up to do our first disney trip together! plus, our trip will coincide with our 9-year "anniversary" (we met and started dating in early september of 1996), so i'm even happier to be able to celebrate that in a place like disney.

we've been thinking about staying at the yacht/beach club resorts as i stayed there in 91 and 94 with family and really loved it. loved the sand-bottomed pool, loved the ice cream parlor, loved the decor. and back then i actually liked stormalong bay better than typhoon lagoon!! i also *really* liked the proximity to epcot. i'm sort of a sucker for being a spitting distance away from the park ;) . our first batch of trips to disney were in the early and mid-80's, and we'd stay at the polynesian, right on the monorail, so i got spoiled. :)

udsweetpea i will PM you after we've settled more on our plans to ask a few questions -- your offer is *very* generous... also -- i saw somewhere that there is some christian rock concert on september 9 and 10 in WDW -- is that true? if so, do you expect the crowds to be crazy? i know september is generally a low-attendance time so maybe any crowds might just balance it out?

lawyergirl25

08-05-2005, 09:47 AM

*bump*

rene'

08-05-2005, 10:04 AM

lawyergirl - Thanks so much for bumping this thread. I really appreciated it!

udsweetpea - We are planning a trip to WDW not this Thanksgiving, but next. It looks like we will be staying at Port Orleans - Riverside, due to your great recommendations. Is it pretty close to everything? I will go back and read through the thread. We are planning on a 7 day - 6 night trip or 5 day - 4 night, we aren't sure, with our two DD's who will be 8 & 11. Any recommendations would be great! We are thinking about NO rental car, do you think that makes sense as I see we can be taken to and from the airport via Disney for free. I hope you are still working there a year from now as I would love to take you up on your generous discount. That would be great!

Edited to add - Do you think it's a good idea to get the plus dining packages?

Edited to add - After doing a little more research, it looks like Thanksgiving isn't the best time to go! :( I will have to rethink that.

Orange

08-05-2005, 11:55 AM

Does anyone know if the week of Thanksgiving is super-crowded? We're going to be visiting my parents that week and my mom got some free passes that she's willing to let us use. We're thinking of going on Monday or (more likely) Tuesday before the holiday. We have a 2 year old daughter so I don't want to go if we'll spend the whole day just waiting in line.

rene'

08-05-2005, 11:59 AM

Orange - That is what I had heard from someone before, that Thanksgiving is a good week to go. I can't remember who I heard it from, though. But, I looked on the WDW website and the week of Thanksgiving is considered regular season which is a little more expensive than value season. So, I don't know if that means more people are there then or what.

Darlene&Scott

08-05-2005, 04:40 PM

My mom works at WDW in ticket sales and for those of you that want to get a deal - to the parkhopper passes for as many days as you plan to visit Disney. They recently made the discounts better and better the more parks and days you pay for, making it more expensive to buy a one day one park pass for lets say 4 days in a row.

One of my sisters and one of my aunts also work at WDW.

As for the off season my mom always says this to plan by:

If the kids are off of school for anything the parks will be busy.

If the kids are in school, the parks will not be busy

think of it. Summer vacation, Thanksgiving week, Christmas to New Years, Easter week, and spring break. That leaves - the second week of Jan to easter time (march/april whatever), then early may to the start of june-ish (summer vacation) then September to the last week of November (thanksgiving) the first week of December until christmas time.

There will be surges of some visitors if you get extra days off for let's say columbus day or something that makes a long weekend, but not nearly the numbers of say christmas break.

For the character dining things you can do priority seatings (which work like reservations but is really the next available table for your party size at that time) which is available 24/7 via phone. i don't know if that's available online yet. Every park has them, and many hotels have them too such as chef mickey's at the contemporary resort. There are many many breakfasts, lunches, and dinners with a lot of characters.

All the hotels have either bus, monorail, or boat ways on property to get you from your disney hotel to a disney park. Just so you know, magic kingdom, epcot, and MGM are close but animal kingdom is out there quite a bit and that's where all the all star resorts are. So you'll get there but it'll be a little ride. You can drive to each park if you want - they have an all day parking pass for a flat fee so you can jump from park to park and not pay each time you park somewhere else.

Port Orleans is smack in the middle of WDW. The newer hotels are the ones that are farther out because well, where else would they build them?

In september they do have a christian rock concert night I think it's called nights of joy or something like that and it is bananas then! I mean we're in the bible belt so yeah - busy stuff :D

I know nothing about Disneyland though - sorry.

I'll subscribe here so that if udsweetpea is working and too exhausted to post ( I know I was when I worked at rainforest cafe at the marketplace) I can try to help with any questions.

I can't say for my relatives that work at WDW about the hotel discount because we have friends and family that visit a lot and we save those for them (sorry) but I can list specials and whatever else will save you some money where ever I can :)

tinkerbelljenny

08-06-2005, 07:53 AM

Orange We went to WDW, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom the week before Thanksgiving last year and it was super busy and crowded.

betsyboop

08-15-2005, 08:47 PM

I'm thinking of treating DH to a 4-day weekend in Disney World for his 30th birthday this Feb. It's seriously his favorite place ever and he'll just die when I tell him that it's his present- I'm so excited:) Anyway, I am trying to decide between Port Orleans and the Beach Club/Yacht Club. Is being walking distance to Epcot and the boardwalk area worth an extra $1000? I've always stayed off-property before, so I'm kind of digging the idea of walking to stuff, rather than the shuttle busses that we'd have to use if we stayed at Port Orleans, but that's a lot extra... Also, what is the difference between the Beach Club hotel rooms and the Beach Club Villas? The studio villa would be the exact same price as the standard hotel room. Is there an advantage to either or are thy actually the same room?

Does anyone have any advise to offer as far as the Disney golf courses go? DH is a huge golfer and I wanted to book him a tee time, but which course is best? I want to make sure it has bunkers shaped like Mickey's head, but other than that, I have no idea how to choose. He likes it when a course has a driving range so he can warm up first too.

undsweetpea, are you still offering your 40% doscount? If you are, I would love to take you up on your offer since this is a pretty extravagent (sp??) birthday gift! Hey, you only turn 30 once, right:D

laurenc

08-16-2005, 02:24 PM

I'm thinking of treating DH to a 4-day weekend in Disney World for his 30th birthday this Feb. It's seriously his favorite place ever and he'll just die when I tell him that it's his present- I'm so excited:) Anyway, I am trying to decide between Port Orleans and the Beach Club/Yacht Club. Is being walking distance to Epcot and the boardwalk area worth an extra $1000? I've always stayed off-property before, so I'm kind of digging the idea of walking to stuff, rather than the shuttle busses that we'd have to use if we stayed at Port Orleans, but that's a lot extra...

i've never been to port orleans, but the beach club/yacht club has a fantastic pool! personally, i like walking to epcot -- plus, if you stay at beach club/yacht club, you are in walking distance to not only epcot and the boardwalk but the the swan hotel and the dolphin hotel, and you're a short boatride away from MGM -- TONS of restaurants right at your fingertips and you can minimize your time on the buses...

so that alone, to me, is worth the money... i commute to work via bus every day and try to avoid spending significant time on the bus while i'm on vacation.

betsyboop

08-17-2005, 10:38 AM

Oh, thanks for the info- I didn't realize it was also so close to the Swan and Dolphin and MGM. It seems like my decision is getting easier the more I learn.

I found out which course has the Mickey shaped bunkers, so in case anyone else was wondering, it's The Magnolia Course. It's closed for the summer, but will be opened again in mid Sept.

mrsface

08-17-2005, 10:55 AM

This is the greatest thread ever! I'm so glad I found it...

I need some advice. DH and I, and my mom, little brother and little sister are going to WDW at the begining of October. We have a hotel already (my in-laws gave us a week of time-share at a Marriot resort) but need to get tickets to the parks. Where is the best place to get them? I've been on the Disney site but I don't know if there's a better way or a way to get a discount.

Also, all 5 of us are going for the first time. What are the rides/sites/shows that we must see? Is it helpful to map out our days or should we just wing it? We've been planning this trip for a long time, but haven't really planned it, KWIM? It hit me yesterday that we've only got 1 1/2 months to figure it all out. Yikes!

I'd appreciate any and all advice! Thanks!

Andrea

MandyMaloo

08-17-2005, 12:33 PM

Hi there! I also worked with the Disney Co. for many years, and also lived about 30 mins from WDW- so I know the place like the back of my hand!

I hope no one feels as if I am intruding, but I have some advice for mrsface.

but need to get tickets to the parks. Where is the best place to get them? I've been on the Disney site but I don't know if there's a better way or a way to get a discount.

Many times, if you have a AAA membership, you can get a discount through them. Otherwise, you can check out your local Disney Store (if you have one around you). They sell tickets there. They have everything on every price level so you can add what you want, and not pay for things you wont be using.

Also, all 5 of us are going for the first time. What are the rides/sites/shows that we must see? Is it helpful to map out our days or should we just wing it? We've been planning this trip for a long time, but haven't really planned it, KWIM? It hit me yesterday that we've only got 1 1/2 months to figure it all out. Yikes!

Congrats on your first time! Seriously, Disney is where my BEST childhood memories come from...you wont forget your vacation! Anyway, I would try to plan out as much as you can. I know it might sound like it takes away from the "fun", but trust me, there are people that go there with scheduals in hand!! I would say, start just a small list of things you want to do/see and go from there. Start at the BACK of the park (Liberty Square or there abouts) and work your way forward. Many people get distracted and head into Tomorrowland first.

Here are a few of my favorite rides/attractions..hope it helps!

** Haunted Mansion (My personal favorite- Liberty Square)
* Splash Mountain (Frontierland)
* Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (Frontierland)
* Country Bear Jamboree (nice and air conditioned ;) )
* Space Mountain (Tomorrowland)
** Pirates of the Caribbean (CLASSIC!!- Adventureland)
* Jungle Cruise (Adventureland)
* Peter Pan (Fantasyland)
* Small World (You'll never need to ride it again- but since it's your first time..check it out. - Fantasy Land)
* The Enchanted Tiki Room Show (Adventureland)

Remember to use the FastPass--they're a life saver! Also, if you get the chance, eat at the Cinderella's Castle. It's located right there in the castle, and the enterance is on your right when you go through the castle- right before you get to the gift shop.

Have a great time! Disney really is the Happiest Place on Earth--have a great time!!

mrsface

08-17-2005, 03:29 PM

MandyMaloo~ Thanks so much for your advice! It makes sense to start in the back of the parks- I hadn't thought of that but we'll definitely do it that way. There's a disney store in the mall 4 minutes from my office so I think I'll head over there to get tickets.

Another question for you all- Have you been to the Cirque du Soleil show? My aunt could not rave enough about it. We'll probably end up spending the $75 each (ouch!) to see it but if anyone knows of any discounts we'd be thrilled.

Thanks again! I'm sure I'll be around here often- at least for the next 46 days!!!!!

ManteoChik

08-20-2005, 08:43 AM

If the kids are off of school for anything the parks will be busy.

If the kids are in school, the parks will not be busy

think of it. Summer vacation, Thanksgiving week, Christmas to New Years, Easter week, and spring break. That leaves - the second week of Jan to easter time (march/april whatever), then early may to the start of june-ish (summer vacation) then September to the last week of November (thanksgiving) the first week of December until christmas time.

I would have to disagree on this one. We go to WDW every year a couple times a year from NC. My senior year in high school we went literally the week before Christmas. I went with my boyfriends family and the adults and one little kid in the family went down early. I went to school that morning, took a final exam and then got in the car with my boyfriend and his cousin and the three of us drove to the airport and went to FL. Our flight put us home the day before Christmas Eve. It was wonderful, the parks were empty. We never had to wait more than 5 min. to get on a ride if that. It wasn't a huge deal because most people start to do their Christmas decorating fairly early....as long as you get your shopping done it really didn't add any additional holiday stress to anyone. In fact, it was better because usually you come home from WDW even more tired than when you went because you are fighting crowds.

I would suggest to anyone with kids to go to WDW the week before Christmas. Think about it, Christmas is the one holiday where most people only take a vacation to see family...not many people go to theme parks. Also when I was younger my family spent Thanksgiving at WDW with my Aunt, Uncle, and their two kids....again there was no crowd (however we were there over the Thanksgiving Holiday).

rene'

08-22-2005, 07:16 AM

Well, now I'm going back to wanting to go over Thanksgiving next year. That was my original thought, but then I heard that it would be busy. Decisions, decisions....

laurenc

08-22-2005, 11:49 AM

DisneyPrincess

08-22-2005, 04:37 PM

There is a BIG Christmas parade, they don't do one for Thanksgiving, but they do a Halloween one. Disney looks so beautiful at Christmas time!

mrsface

08-25-2005, 11:34 AM

Another question for you...

We are not staying in a Disney hotel, so we don't have the convenient shuttles.. :( Of course, our hotel was free, so I'm not complaining too loudly. :p But, it does necessitate a rental car and parking. What is the parking situation like? How much is it? Will we have to buy a parking pass for each park we visit, each day? Is there a central parking lot? Do they sell week long passes?

As always, any advice is appreciated.

SingleWhiteFemale

08-25-2005, 11:00 PM

I would suggest to anyone with kids to go to WDW the week before Christmas. Think about it, Christmas is the one holiday where most people only take a vacation to see family...not many people go to theme parks. Also when I was younger my family spent Thanksgiving at WDW with my Aunt, Uncle, and their two kids....again there was no crowd (however we were there over the Thanksgiving Holiday).I was told that many people vacation there for Christmas, and it's literally packed the few days surrounding Christmas. Heck, I would want to escape the NE snow for fun in the sun in my bikini! However, the "value season" (i.e. when fewer people are there, and they have cheaper hotel rates) lasts through December 19. After that, it's "peak season" when more people are there. I hate crowds, but... I have been to Disney twice (spring break in high school and back when I was 10, both family vacations), included Universal in my trip, and I wanted something different. All the holiday decor, plus it's the 50th anniversary celebration.. it's my graduation gift (I graduate in May witbh my bachelors) that I originally planned for mid-January, but moved because I got this zany idea that I had to do a Disney Christmas before I die. Same with a Disney Easter, Disney birthday, Disney anniversary, Disney Thanksgiving... :D

Andrea, where would you suggest for Christmas Dinner? When I went in 1995, my dad loved King Stefano's Roundtable in Ms. Cindy's castle, but I've searched high and low, and apparently it no longer exists. We're looking for a really nice dinner, not insanely pricey (maybe around $50 per person, excluding drinks?), but I know nothing at a nicer restaurant in the park is going to be "inexpensive." Also, I know this is the end of August, but when is the earliest I can call for reservations? We're looking for a 4pm dinner. I heard 90 days before, and start calling at 6:55 am until you get through, because these places book quick for the holiday meal. I hope I haven't missed the opening day to get reservations. I've been to Disney before, last time in 2000. Done lots of stuff while there, but is there anything you'd suggest we just shouldn't miss this time around?

I hate to ask, but I notice you offered you friends and family hotel discount. Could you possibly use that to book for me over the Christmas holiday? I currently have reservations (room only) and I can cancel them without penalty. I'm booked in the Pop Century (okay, I'm cheap :D I have stayed in the Contemporary and the All-Star music--love the bigger bathroom, but it's not worth the pricetag). Would reservations still be available at this time for the Christmas season (it's December 19-27--19th is the last day of the value season, and I want to lock in that lower rate for the trip instead of going a day later and paying $40 more)? I had 3 rooms, as it's thought to be 7 or 8 people, but could be as low as 6. And is the cancellation policy the same (5 days before check-in)? I was able to get 15% off $77 using AAA, and my total hotel bill looks to be $1427 with taxes. So I guess anything better than that would be great. :)

Are you by any chance working over the Christmas holiday? :rolleyes: Would be nice to meet another CC member :)

ETA: What is the difference between a standard room and a preferred room?

udsweetpea

08-26-2005, 11:23 AM

I was told that many people vacation there for Christmas, and it's literally packed the few days surrounding Christmas. Heck, I would want to escape the NE snow for fun in the sun in my bikini! However, the "value season" (i.e. when fewer people are there, and they have cheaper hotel rates) lasts through December 19. After that, it's "peak season" when more people are there. I hate crowds, but... I have been to Disney twice (spring break in high school and back when I was 10, both family vacations), included Universal in my trip, and I wanted something different. All the holiday decor, plus it's the 50th anniversary celebration.. it's my graduation gift (I graduate in May witbh my bachelors) that I originally planned for mid-January, but moved because I got this zany idea that I had to do a Disney Christmas before I die. Same with a Disney Easter, Disney birthday, Disney anniversary, Disney Thanksgiving... :D

Andrea, where would you suggest for Christmas Dinner? When I went in 1995, my dad loved King Stefano's Roundtable in Ms. Cindy's castle, but I've searched high and low, and apparently it no longer exists. We're looking for a really nice dinner, not insanely pricey (maybe around $50 per person, excluding drinks?), but I know nothing at a nicer restaurant in the park is going to be "inexpensive." Also, I know this is the end of August, but when is the earliest I can call for reservations? We're looking for a 4pm dinner. I heard 90 days before, and start calling at 6:55 am until you get through, because these places book quick for the holiday meal. I hope I haven't missed the opening day to get reservations. I've been to Disney before, last time in 2000. Done lots of stuff while there, but is there anything you'd suggest we just shouldn't miss this time around?

I hate to ask, but I notice you offered you friends and family hotel discount. Could you possibly use that to book for me over the Christmas holiday?

Are you by any chance working over the Christmas holiday? :rolleyes: Would be nice to meet another CC member :)

ETA: What is the difference between a standard room and a preferred room?

Wow, lots of questions ;) King Stephan's is now called Cinderella's Royal Table. I would definitely recommend what you've already heard- book 90 days in advance and do it at the crack of dawn to ensure booking a reservation for the day you want. If you don't get in there, let me know and I can give you some other recommendations for Christmas dinner. Are there any children travelling with you? That might help me try to think of some alternatives for you.

Unfortunately, all of the cast member discounted rooms are booked for the Christmas holiday. I'm really sorry I couldn't do anything for you. Some other time though definitely!!!

Would I suggest anything extra special this time around? Well, Disney World hasn't changed that much since 2000, except for a few new attractions. Magic Kingdom has changed their fireworks display and has named it "Wishes". Definitely don't miss that!

I will probably be working over the Christmas holiday, and if you'd like to stop in, I work at 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian Resort. I work dinners there Monday-Wednesday (but I might be changing my availability, so don't take my word on it). It's actually a GREAT place to go if you have younger girls travelling with you. Cinderella is there along with Prince Charming, Fairy Godmother, Suzy, and Perla.

The difference between a standard room and a preferred room location- standard means your view is the parking lot and preferred means some other view (could be the pool, landscaping, courtyard, etc).

mrsface
Another question for you...

We are not staying in a Disney hotel, so we don't have the convenient shuttles.. Of course, our hotel was free, so I'm not complaining too loudly. But, it does necessitate a rental car and parking. What is the parking situation like? How much is it? Will we have to buy a parking pass for each park we visit, each day? Is there a central parking lot? Do they sell week long passes?

As always, any advice is appreciated.

Each park has its own parking lot. Once you pay the $8 or $9 to park for the day, you can park hop and not have to pay each time you go to a new park. Unfortunately, I don't think they sell week long passes, and there isn't a central parking lot. Parking isn't too bad at the parks. It just means you have to pay the fee and take a tram up the park instead of being let off the busses right up front.

Oh, and you can leave your car at one park and use the Disney busses to park hop throughout the day and come back to your car later (just don't mention you're staying off property ;) ). I wouldn't do this at Animal Kingdom though because it closes so much earlier than the other parks and you won't be able to get back to your car.

betsyboop

08-29-2005, 02:17 PM

udsweetpea- I guess you missed my post, but do you know if there are any of the cast member discounted rooms left for President's Day weekend? Feb 16-20?? I'd like a room at the Beach or Yacht Club or the Boardwalk. Or, if those are booked, Port Orleans. Let me know if you get a chance. Thanks!

udsweetpea

08-30-2005, 09:50 AM

betsyboop I PMed you with the details about President's Day Weekend.

betsyboop

08-30-2005, 10:40 AM

Oh, er... how do I check a PM?

udsweetpea

08-30-2005, 10:53 AM

It's at the top right-hand corner of the screen. Private messages is underlined. Just click that.

ManteoChik

09-03-2005, 01:56 PM

Originally Posted by ManteoChik
I would suggest to anyone with kids to go to WDW the week before Christmas. Think about it, Christmas is the one holiday where most people only take a vacation to see family...not many people go to theme parks. Also when I was younger my family spent Thanksgiving at WDW with my Aunt, Uncle, and their two kids....again there was no crowd (however we were there over the Thanksgiving Holiday).

For me this was my personal experience going to WDW the week before Christmas and I would continue to reccomend that time to anyone. I just know that we never once had to wait in a line for a ride. We stayed at the Boardwalk Inn and never had a problem with getting dinner reservations at any of our favorite restaurants either. I'm sure everyone has their own opinion of when a good time is to go, but I noticed that this was a *very* stress free time. I have a hard time going to WDW because I just can't stand the crowds and when people are hot and sticky their attitudes seem to be even worse. I just really liked the fact that we didn't have to deal with crowds.

I'm not saying there isn't anyone at WDW because there are always people there..but I found it to be a realativly good time to be there.

DallasLady

09-04-2005, 04:52 PM

Christmas being a slow time at Disney is not entirely true. I am sure that Andrea will back this up when she returns. I am a Disney travel agent, and I know that Christmas itself is the BUSIEST time of year for Disneyworld. The weeks preceeding Christmas are light, but as soon as the kids get out for Christmas break there are wall-to-wall people. There have been times when the parks close because they are at capacity.

If you go early December, you are good (1-18th or so). If you go for Christmas or New Years, be prepared to be one of MANY.

jeeplover

09-05-2005, 08:42 AM

I just wanted to chime in about Christmas at Disney, as I had worked there during Christmas for 2 years. The reason it is so crazy is that the park is opened late and offer many special events but like ManteoChik said the weeks prior to Christmas are fairly light. It was always like the calm before the storm for me and my coworkers! I do recommend at least going to Disney once during the Christmas season (which starts there right after Thanksgiving) to see all the beautiful decorations and such.

LuluGirl

09-05-2005, 11:47 AM

I went to DW last year for Christmas, Dec 19-26th. It is true that it's crazy busy there, but I had my best time there ever. (I sound like a little kid!) It was really cold there last year and rainy, but that just added to whole Christmas feel. My boyfriend (at that time) and I ended up standing right outside of the castle on Christmas eve, watching the fireworks. And after the fireworks went off, the large majority of people in MK left and we had a good 3 hours just running around the park, walking onto all the major rides.

Ericka_Jarett

09-05-2005, 03:31 PM

We got married down at WDW at the Wilderness Lodge almost 4 yrs ago. We went from the 13th - 20th of December and it was perfect. The weather was great, the parks were pretty empty (wait was never more than 5 mins) and got to see all the Christmas decorations and even the Christmas Party we got admitted to. We stayed at the Wilderness Lodge as well on the 7th floor woods view was clear view to the Castle. Could see the fireworks from our balcony.

We are hoping to go again next year for our 5th anniversary with some friends but staying at Fort Wilderness most likely, since there will be kids with us.

Hubby wants to go this year for our anniversary now too :) UD we may be taking you up on your offer

Aug2002Bride

09-12-2005, 05:44 PM

Do you get any discounts on the Disney Cruise?

rene'

09-14-2005, 08:45 AM

O.K., I am so excited! My mother-in-law just called to tell me that we can use one of their time shares to go to Florida next year! :D It costs $149 to transfer it and it goes from Sunday to Sunday, that calculates to $21.43 per day! I'm not sure if they have any resorts on Disneyworld's site, but I'm sure they have one close. We would just have to figure in a rental car, parking, etc.

The thing is, we have to get it transferred now to guarantee the week we want. But, I figure even if something happens and we can't go, we are only out $149.

Sorry, I just had to share...... :)

rene'

09-14-2005, 09:01 AM

Another question, it may have been asked already? What is the cost to park if you aren't staying in a Disneyworld Resort?

Thanks!

jeeplover

09-14-2005, 09:05 AM

Another question, it may have been asked already? What is the cost to park if you aren't staying in a Disneyworld Resort?

Thanks!

Rene-that is great that you will be able to stay in a timeshare in Orlando. It is $5 to park and if you decide to go to another park just keep your parking pass and you won't have to pay at the other park. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

mrsface

09-14-2005, 09:59 AM

udsweetpea

09-14-2005, 03:30 PM

Rene-that is great that you will be able to stay in a timeshare in Orlando. It is $5 to park and if you decide to go to another park just keep your parking pass and you won't have to pay at the other park. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

To park at Disney? I think they raised it to $8 now.

ManteoChik

09-14-2005, 05:14 PM

Weather. What is it like? Will we want jackets? Shorts? We honestly have no idea... Also, what do the hurricanes do in Orlando? My little sister told me she didn't want to go at all because of them... She's very nervous. So, what's it really like.

Are you staying on property? Everytime I go to WDW we stay at one of the resorts in a suite so we always have a washer/dryer.

I would take normal summer items and maybe 1 pair of jeans, 1 sweatshirt, and one long sleeve shirt per person. It hasn't been very chilly here at night yet but I have noticed that it isn't hot in the morning/at night like it has been. I would imagine in 3 more weeks it wouldn't be a bad idea to at least bring a pair of pants and sweatshirt. Having to buy them at the park would be very costly especially if you already have them.

jeeplover

09-15-2005, 04:59 AM

udsweetpea-wow my SIL was just there and she said she paid $5-of course she could be confused or have simply forgetten!

udsweetpea

09-15-2005, 07:18 AM

udsweetpea-wow my SIL was just there and she said she paid $5-of course she could be confused or have simply forgetten!

Nope, I don't think its been $5 since the 80's.

jeeplover

09-15-2005, 08:00 AM

It was $5 when I worked there in '96 and '97 and was that way in 2002 when I went back! The only reason I know is that I worked at the toll booths at MGM and drove the tram there as well!

udsweetpea

09-15-2005, 08:58 AM

It was $5 when I worked there in '96 and '97 and was that way in 2002 when I went back! The only reason I know is that I worked at the toll booths at MGM and drove the tram there as well!

The 80's thing was just a joke. I know its $8 now. I drive through the MK toll booths every day.

jeeplover

09-15-2005, 11:46 AM

With the way the ticket price increases are going you would think it has been that long-LOL!

1MegMeg

09-16-2005, 12:43 PM

PrincessTommi

09-16-2005, 02:04 PM

We leave in less than 3 weeks! I'm so excited... We bought tickets for the Cirque du Soleil- a total splurge, but it should be fun.

A couple more questions for you ladies with all the knowledge.

We still haven't bought tickets to the parks yet. I suppose I keep putting it off hoping they'll be discounted or something. Please give me a kick in the pants to just order them online, unless there is a better way. I'm such a procrastinator!!!

The 10th, the day we fly home, is my 2nd anniversary. We'd like to go out for a nice dinner to celebrate one night. I need reccomendations. We like all kinds of food- Indian is about our favorite, but we're pretty adventurous. Where should we go? I'm trying to figure it out so I can make reservations, if necessary.

Weather. What is it like? Will we want jackets? Shorts? We honestly have no idea... Also, what do the hurricanes do in Orlando? My little sister told me she didn't want to go at all because of them... She's very nervous. So, what's it really like.

Thanks!
Andrea

My countdown is at 35 days, so I'm excited too!

Weather - October is nice. There may be some cool nights. I would take both shorts and pants, and a light jacket.

Hurricanes - Since Orlando is in the middle, hurricanes don't cause the type of damage you see at the coasts. Last year, the hurricanes made the Orlando area kind of messy, some downed trees, some flooding, but overall, not too bad I've heard. Think bad thunderstorms. Disney has held up very well. I have friends that still live and work there, and when we checked in with them after the storms last year, they said Disney property didn't even lose power when other places in Orlando did. Andrea should have more info on that though.

Food - Haven't been to Jiko, but at the Animal Kingdom Lodge there's also Boma, which is my favorite place in.the.world. It's a buffet, but DH and I had a lovely romantic dinner there the first night of our honeymoon. I love the www.allearsnet.com site, it has all the menus. My other favorite restaurant is Restaurant Marrakesh in Morroco in Epcot. I've heard great things about California Grill (Contemporary) and Narcoosee's(Grand Floridian). I'm quite excited about having dinner in the castle at MK on our upcoming trip as well. Le Cellier in Canada at Epcot is nice too. I've heard good things about Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club.

Tickets - Check out http://www.ticketmania.com/discounttickets.shtml. I've heard they are a good, reliable discount ticket broker. Maybe that will help a little. I would definitely order tickets ahead of time, it will save you a lot of time and some money. The lines at the ticket windows in the mornings are insane! You don't want to have to do that.

julietchicago

09-17-2005, 07:25 AM

Yay! DH and I are leaving for Orlando 1 week from today - 9/24! We spent 7 days at Disney back in 2003, so this time we are going to Seaworld and Universal Studios. We will definetly stop at Downtown Disney, and there is a slight chance we could buy a 1 day ticket to Disney if we need something to do. I'm sooooo excited!! We try to go down every year. DH even wants to move down! LOL.

mrsface

09-19-2005, 10:43 AM

Meg~
Thanks so much for the restaurant reccomendations- I'm really liking the menu at Jiko. We may very well end up celebrating there! We are staying at the Westgate Lakes Resort- we're using a week of Marriott timeshare. Hopefully it will be nice. It should be- 3 bedrooms, full kitchen, whirlpool tub etc...

Princesstommi~
Thanks so much for the link to allears.net- that's a great site! Also, I appreciate the weather tips and hurricane info. You've been most highly helpful.

Two weeks from today I will be frolicking joyfully in the Magic Kingdom. :D :D :D

udsweetpea

09-19-2005, 11:01 AM

julietchicago and mrsface Sounds like you two have some great vacations planned! The parks are really slow right now, so its a great time to come! And we haven't gotten rain for about a week!!! :D

Just a reminder- I'm still offering my 40% discount to anyone who would like to stay at a Disney resort. Just PM me if you want more info.

1MegMeg

09-19-2005, 11:21 AM

Mrsface - I think you'll really enjoy Jiko. :) DH and I celebrated our 1st anniversary there and we had a great time! Be sure and check out the food and wine festival at Epcot. If you enjoy food (and it sounds like you do Hehe, just like me! :)), you'll love it! What exact dates are you going to be down?

Andrea - As soon as SIL let's us know when her daughter's baptism is going to be I will be contacting you for a resort reservation. :) The baptism is most likely going to be sometime in January, which is when we want to go to WDW again...so we are waiting for her to firm up her plans before we book.

Boopy

09-20-2005, 12:30 PM

:) jakedog - I don't have children, but I did some research for my sister when she recently went. You can bring your own stroller or rent. Renting is $10/day (no deposit) OR $8/day Length of Stay. There is a stroller parking lot outside of the lines to park them at and it is useful to tie something unique to yours so you can easily identify it and no one else with a similar style accidentially walks off with yours. Leashes are great too for when the little one wants to walk to keep them from wondering off! Hope this helps!

ETA - No, I don't believe they make you prove the age of the children.

jeeplover

09-20-2005, 12:45 PM

jakedog-they don't require you to prove the age of your child! I recommend bringing your own stroller because alot of people rent strollers and you would be better off being able to identify your own over one that you rented. Just a sidenote but when I went to WDW with my SIL and her 3 children she didn't like the strollers they rented out, she just felt safer bringing her own and she felt that her daughter would be more comfortable in her own. Have a wonderful trip, I hope your son has fun!

onomatopoeia

09-21-2005, 08:06 AM

udsweetpea

09-21-2005, 10:41 AM

PrincessTommi

09-21-2005, 12:08 PM

What age do you think kids really enjoy DisneyWorld or Disneyland??

My son is about to be one and we're thinking of planning a trip to either park (not sure which one would be best). I think perhaps for his 2nd bday.... is that too young?
Are there things that he could enjoy down there?

any info would be great. I have been to both parks when I was 8 and 10, but don't remember much.
I don't really think there is a "too young", AS LONG AS parents realize that the trip is for them (to experience their child's experiences and reactions), but that the trip must be tailored to meet the needs of the child and be flexible in plans.

In March 2004, we took a family trip. It was me, DH, MIL, FIL, DH's aunt and uncle and 3yo cousin, P. Yes, P had a fantastic time. But we knew it was about us wanting to give P that fantastic time. She will most likely not have any memories of the trip, but we will. I had never seen WDW as a child, and I had so much fun seeing it with her like that. It was a wonderful family trip that will be a highlight of family memories forever. There is nothing like witnessing that kind of innocence experiencing those type of things. And there is nothing like sitting on "It's a Small World" 4 times in a row because that was her favorite attraction.

At the same time, everything we did and planned was about her. We spent a lot of time in Fantasyland. We planned meals and attractions around her schedule and when we would have to leave to get back for naps. We skipped a lot of things we would normally do on an adult trip, and we were fine with it.

I've seen so many families with young children. Some good, some bad. The worst were always parents who wanted to get their itinerary done, and insist their kids are along for the ride. Or the parents who have the mentality "we paid a lot of money for this, so you will have fun dammit!".

And yes, hauling stuff was kind of annoying. But we had it down to a science by the middle of the week. And as far as age appropriate stuff, there are things for all ages. We weren't sure what P's tolerances would be, so we took it slow. We didn't force anything on her, and we learned quickly what she liked and didn't like. We actually came upon Chip and Dale as we were randomly walking down a path in Disney's Animal Kingdom. She watched from afar, and then wanted to go up and touch. We weren't going to plop her in front of huge adult sized costumed characters if they were going to scare her. I've seen people do that and it's so sad. She liked music and shows, we sat near the entrance of the Festival of the Lion King show in case we had to leave, but she loved it. Like I said, Small World was her favorite. She wasn't too fond of the carousel but she tolerated it with her daddy, and she Hated loud noises - so we skipped all the fireworks shows. One of her favorite things was feeding the ducks outside our villa, so we spent extra time at the resort.

I think DH went for the first time when he was 6. He doesn't really remember too much about that trip, but his mom still talks about it to this day. We will do the same for P's first trip. I can see both sides of the "what is too young", but after experiencing it, I wouldn't change a thing.

Some people aren't comfortable spending so much time and money on a vacation without getting more out of it, so it's probably not worth it to go when kids are younger. We knew we would be back, so taking times to watch ducks wasn't a waste of money or time. That's when you get the families dragging exhausted cranky children everywhere in the hot sun.

It's a completely personal thing, I guess. Sorry if I've rambled and made no sense. :o

PrincessTommi

09-21-2005, 01:04 PM

Quick question - we are leaving the day after tomorrow and you would think I had this figured out already :o But whats the deal with strollers? Do you bring yours to the park or get one there? Also do they allow them in line or should I bring a sling (or a leash LOl-no I'm serious!) to keep Jr in check? (he's 15 mo and runs like a bat out of hell)
Also are there any places that recommend which attractions are best for the VERY young kids?
Ok one more question- are we going to need to PROVE how old he is? I mean clearly he is a toddler but will they make us prove it??

Sorry one more- we have the old park hopper plus tickest and I was wondering which of the PLUS options you would recommend for two adults and a toddler (I mean obviously not pleasure island)

TIA!!

You've gotten good advice about the strollers. If you want to take one with you, you definitely can. And if you don't want to worry about hauling one, you can rent a stroller. You can't take any strollers in to lines, so the sling (or leash) may be a good idea. Those queues can get long and windy with lots of legs to dart through and around.

As far as attractions, it's mainly about what your son likes. You can pretty much take him on anything that doesn't have a height requirement. Here's a link to restrictions for attractions, and has some listed that may be too intense for small children: http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/rr.htm. On our last trip, we learned that P loved Small World, but didn't like the moving parts of the carousel. Loved music and dancing, but not if it was too loud. Nothing in our plans were concrete, and they changed quite a few times as we learned new things about P's tolerances.

You won't have to prove anything about his age. Sometimes they will ask toddlers how old they are, if a kid looks more like 4-5 and is trying to be passed off as an under-3-don't-need-a-ticket child, or the 9-10 price break. But for the most part, it's up to the parents to be truthful with their childrens' ages.

Do you guys like water parks? Because other than the water parks, what can you use the Plusses for? DisneyQuest? DisneyQuest was fun, but I went with a group of friends, I don't know what would be there for a toddler. Here's an allearsnet.com page that has links to info on the water parks and DisneyQuest.

Hope that helps.

onomatopoeia

09-22-2005, 07:19 AM

princesstommi, thanks for the info. the trip would be my mom and stepdad and DS and DH and me so I think with 4 adults hauling stuff around shouldn't be a big deal. My mom will be 60 so she's not the rollercoaster type of woman, and she said that she and stepdad would be happy to take DS around while Dh and I spend some time alone.

Even at 8 and 10, I can barely remember the parks. I think I've got a bad memory :) but I totally agree that it would so much fun to see DS's reactions to things - like a large size Mickey Mouse.

udsweetpea, I always thought we'd wait til DS was older, but my mom isn't in the best of health and she wants to do a family trip. I was thinking next year b/c after that I wanted to get try for #2 and I don't want to go down to the park either pregnant or with 2 littles ones.

Thanks for the advice!

mamax2

09-27-2005, 09:53 AM

Thanks so much for the restaurant reccomendations- I'm really liking the menu at Jiko. We may very well end up celebrating there! We are staying at the Westgate Lakes Resort- we're using a week of Marriott timeshare. Hopefully it will be nice. It should be- 3 bedrooms, full kitchen, whirlpool tub etc...
O.k., this is weird, but MrsFace - me too! We're arriving at Westgate on Sunday 10/2 also staying in a 3 BR w/my SIL, BIL and their 2 kids (should be interesting, 4 adults and 3 kids ages 2 and under :eek: ) We're also going to Cirque du Soleil and currently looking for great adults-only dinner choices. We're trading childcare w/the ILS so each couple gets 1-2 nights on their own.

At this point, we're NOT planning on going to Disney simply b/c I'm 7 months pg and DD is 2, so what's the point? We're going to SeaWorld for 2 days, the Makahiki Luau and B'fast w/Shamu plus doing a character b'fast another day. We may change our minds on going to WDW itself once we're there, but we're planning to stagger childcare duties so SIL and I can hit the spa and the guys can golf a few times too. The kids will probably be most interested in playing at the resort pool :p We're trying to plan activities so we just do one thing a day so as not to overstimulate the kids and make them crazy.

I was going to come to this thread to ask for recommendations for a nice, adult dinner place, but looks like that's already been covered so I'm off to check out allearsnet.com! :D

eta: As for tickets, I've pre-purchased almost everything from ticketmania.com or orlandoinfo.com - depending upon who had the cheaper price.

mrsface

09-27-2005, 08:53 PM

O.k., this is weird, but MrsFace - me too! We're arriving at Westgate on Sunday 10/2 also staying in a 3 BR w/my SIL, BIL and their 2 kids (should be interesting, 4 adults and 3 kids ages 2 and under :eek: ) We're also going to Cirque du Soleil and currently looking for great adults-only dinner choices. We're trading childcare w/the ILS so each couple gets 1-2 nights on their own.

At this point, we're NOT planning on going to Disney simply b/c I'm 7 months pg and DD is 2, so what's the point? We're going to SeaWorld for 2 days, the Makahiki Luau and B'fast w/Shamu plus doing a character b'fast another day. We may change our minds on going to WDW itself once we're there, but we're planning to stagger childcare duties so SIL and I can hit the spa and the guys can golf a few times too. The kids will probably be most interested in playing at the resort pool :p We're trying to plan activities so we just do one thing a day so as not to overstimulate the kids and make them crazy.

I was going to come to this thread to ask for recommendations for a nice, adult dinner place, but looks like that's already been covered so I'm off to check out allearsnet.com! :D

eta: As for tickets, I've pre-purchased almost everything from ticketmania.com or orlandoinfo.com - depending upon who had the cheaper price.

Wow. That is weird! Have you ever stayed there? We just picked it off a list, so we're hoping it's nice.

What night are you going to Cirque du Soleil? We are going on Tuesday, the early show...

Good plan on not planning too many activites. My brother is 8, so a lot older than your kids, but we're still planning on taking it easy for him. We got the Disney tickets that let us go in and out of the parks each day so if we want to go back and take naps we can...

Okay you fabulous ladies with all the knowledge- yet another question for you. As you know, we're not staying on Disney property. Will we be able to use the busses between parks? What kind of proof do they ask for? How does it work, exactly? Also, can you explain the 'Magic After Hours'? Do they kick everyone out and then let people back in? Again, what proof do they need? And, now the kicker- is there anything I can do to get some of the action? :p ;) :D

Thanks!

udsweetpea

09-27-2005, 10:00 PM

Okay you fabulous ladies with all the knowledge- yet another question for you. As you know, we're not staying on Disney property. Will we be able to use the busses between parks? What kind of proof do they ask for? How does it work, exactly? Also, can you explain the 'Magic After Hours'? Do they kick everyone out and then let people back in? Again, what proof do they need? And, now the kicker- is there anything I can do to get some of the action? :p ;) :D

Thanks!

Technically, you're not allowed to use the Disney busses, but I've never seen them ask for proof. Extra Magic Hours are extra hours before and after the park opens and closes. You will need an arm bracelet to get on any ride or to even walk in a shop, so yes, that does require proof (Resort ID card).

Sabrina

09-28-2005, 06:13 AM

Technically, you're not allowed to use the Disney busses, but I've never seen them ask for proof.

I spend a lot of time in Orlando and at WDW (my family has a vacation house in St Cloud :)), and I know you work at WDW, Andrea, but I have to respectfully contradict you on this one. Anyone holding a valid park pass is entitled to use Disney Transportation. If I have a Park Hopper pass, I am permitted to take the bus from Animal Kingdom to Magic Kingdom, just as I am allowed to take the Monorail from Magic Kingdom to Epcot. Likewise, I am permitted to use the resort buses to travel around the property to dine at the resort restuarants. :cool:

udsweetpea

09-28-2005, 08:51 AM

I spend a lot of time in Orlando and at WDW (my family has a vacation house in St Cloud :)), and I know you work at WDW, Andrea, but I have to respectfully contradict you on this one. Anyone holding a valid park pass is entitled to use Disney Transportation. If I have a Park Hopper pass, I am permitted to take the bus from Animal Kingdom to Magic Kingdom, just as I am allowed to take the Monorail from Magic Kingdom to Epcot. Likewise, I am permitted to use the resort buses to travel around the property to dine at the resort restuarants. :cool:

I guess I never got that memo. Sorry, Sabrina. :cool:

Sabrina

09-28-2005, 09:58 AM

Even at 8 and 10, I can barely remember the parks. I think I've got a bad memory :) but I totally agree that it would so much fun to see DS's reactions to things - like a large size Mickey Mouse.

My first WDW trip was when I was 7, and I remember it very well. :D

I have seen lots of people in the parks with little ones around 2 years old, and there is no doubt that the kids are having a blast. However, at that age, he won't remember the trip, so you will have to take lots of photos ;) . The downside to having little ones with you in the park, as udsweetpea pointed out, is that you have to cart a ton of stuff with you. Not to mention that chances are you will have to leave the parks in the middle of the day so that your son can take a nap (I hate to waste my park time, I am a commando tourist!). Oh, and people like DH and I who don't have kids will give you the evil eye if you hit us in the ankles with your stroller.... ;)

udsweetpea

09-28-2005, 01:37 PM

Oh, and people like DH and I who don't have kids will give you the evil eye if you hit us in the ankles with your stroller.... ;)

The very reason I don't go to the parks unless its extremely slow. I hate the strollers hitting my ankles. I get so mad and end up saying "if your child needs a stroller, they're too young to come to Disney World" loud enough for them to hear. I don't really mean it, but it gets entirely too annoying.

Sabrina

09-29-2005, 04:26 AM

"if your child needs a stroller, they're too young to come to Disney World"

LOL!! I often find myself thinking this same thing when I am in the parks. Then I remember that we are all kids at heart when we are at WDW ;)

mamax2

09-29-2005, 09:25 PM

Wow. That is weird! Have you ever stayed there? We just picked it off a list, so we're hoping it's nice.

What night are you going to Cirque du Soleil? We are going on Tuesday, the early show...
We've never stayed there either - just picked it online (timeshare trade) mainly b/c they offered a 3 BR unit w/2 BRs having king beds and none of the other places did that. I have since read a LOT of horror stories though :( apparently they hit you hard w/the whole timeshare sales load so you have to really stick to your guns and shut 'em down fast! We have Cirque tix on Tuesday & Thursday nights - late show for both so we can take in dinner first. ILS will go one night and we'll go the other.

Character Breakfast/Dinner ~ My plans are bust - we waited too long to reserve :( We may have to suck it up and go to Disney so DD can see some characters.

Oh, and people like DH and I who don't have kids will give you the evil eye if you hit us in the ankles with your stroller....
Even people who have kids and use strollers don't like to be mowed down by them ;)

"if your child needs a stroller, they're too young to come to Disney World"
Geez, I hope we don't run into a lot of this when we're there. We specifically picked Orlando to vacation since we thought it would be a kid- friendly town, even if DD isn't really able to 'get' WDW, kwim? Where is a family w/kids supposed to vacation exactly? :rolleyes:

mrsface

09-29-2005, 09:38 PM

Character Breakfast/Dinner ~ My plans are bust - we waited too long to reserve :( We may have to suck it up and go to Disney so DD can see some characters.

I ran into that same problem today! We just decided that it would be fun to go to a character breakfast, so I called and the lady I talked with said they didn't have ANYTHING the whole time we'll be there. When she was checking she told me how strange it was to be that booked for October... She wasn't sure what was going on, but it didn't sound good to me... I might try again when we're down there- we might even try just showing up. We'll just have to play it by ear.

Soooo, I leave in 2 1/2 days. Yikes. I've got so much to do! Any last minute advice on what to pack, where to go, what to see etc..? Oh, I remember someone talking about going to the beach but I don't remember what was said or where it was said. :o We'd like to go to the beach for a day- where should we go? What day would be best- are weekends totally crowded?

Ahhhh! So much to think about. Thank you all so much for your help.

PrincessTommi

09-30-2005, 07:25 AM

I ran into that same problem today! We just decided that it would be fun to go to a character breakfast, so I called and the lady I talked with said they didn't have ANYTHING the whole time we'll be there. When she was checking she told me how strange it was to be that booked for October... She wasn't sure what was going on, but it didn't sound good to me... I might try again when we're down there- we might even try just showing up. We'll just have to play it by ear.

Soooo, I leave in 2 1/2 days. Yikes. I've got so much to do! Any last minute advice on what to pack, where to go, what to see etc..? Oh, I remember someone talking about going to the beach but I don't remember what was said or where it was said. :o We'd like to go to the beach for a day- where should we go? What day would be best- are weekends totally crowded?

Ahhhh! So much to think about. Thank you all so much for your help.

Sorry about the character breakfast. You can keep trying, swing by any guest relations office and have them check. Or you can check at the podium of the restaurant and see what the wait is if they are taking walkins.

October is quite busy this year. The "free dining" package, and the regular dining package, were a really great draw for Disney during the slow time (hurricane season) this year. Restaurants have been really full. And October has the Food and Wine Festival, and there are a number of big conferences in Orlando and at Disney this time of year. That's why we are going, FIL has a medical conference.

My favorite beach is on the Gulf Side in Clearwater. Cocoa Beach on the other side is neat, too. I haven't been too often, and I never drove, so I can't be of much help there.

My advice - Just relax and don't get too worked up trying to get everything in. I've seen that ruin vacations faster than anything else. Utilize the fastpass system. People watch. Have fun! Be a kid!

Have a great time! :D

udsweetpea

10-08-2005, 02:45 PM

Geez, I hope we don't run into a lot of this when we're there. We specifically picked Orlando to vacation since we thought it would be a kid- friendly town, even if DD isn't really able to 'get' WDW, kwim? Where is a family w/kids supposed to vacation exactly? :rolleyes:

WDW is kid-friendly, not really baby-friendly. It doesn't lend well to parents with very young children, IMO.

PG-rated

11-11-2005, 03:02 PM

Bumping 'cause we're talking about a mini-vacation to WDW in April. Question: Of the All-Star Movies Resort, Pop Century Resort, or All-Star Music Resort, which would you pick? Or is there something else in the same price range you like better?

Leia

11-11-2005, 11:30 PM

Angela - I have stayed at all of those properties and found them to be about the same. I think Pop Century is preferred by most as it has it doesn't share buses/bus stop with the other All Stars. I would look over on the disboards, but I suspect they'll mostly prefer Pop.

PG-rated

11-15-2005, 12:07 PM

Actually, allearsnet ranks All-Star Movies as its favorite, but I'm starting to think it might be worth the money to stay at the Port Orleans Riverside instead, especially since we won't have kids with us. If only money were no object, and we could stay at the Grand Floridian! :D

lindybug

11-15-2005, 12:35 PM

Port Orleans is DEFINITELY worth the money to switch. It is a world apart from the All-Stars. Do not even think about it another second... DO IT!!!

Darin's Girl

11-15-2005, 03:39 PM

If you aren't taking kids- I wouldn't stay at the All Stars. It seems to be geared more towards young families. I've stayed at POR and loved it! Book it!

udsweetpea

11-15-2005, 07:24 PM

Another vote for Port Orleans Riverside!

KristyK

01-19-2006, 10:51 AM

Ok ladies, and experts, I'm bumping this up because...........

WE'RE GOING TO DISNEYWORLD!!!!! WooHOOOOO!!!!!

So, I have some questions. I've read the whole thread and almost everyone has younger kids, so my questions are (hopefully) new.

We'll be staying 10 days at a Disney resort. Our plans are for 7 days at Disney, 2 days at Universal and 1 day at Seaworld. Is this enough time for all the parks?? Should we cut something out, or would we be able to add something in? I know that we probably won't go to all the Disney parks the entire 7 days, because we'll probably want a day or 2 just to relax at the pool or whatever.

We are taking 2 teenagers, that eat like horses. Would it be worth it for us to purchase the Disney meal programs, and what do they cost? The Disney site has never had that feature enabled, so I can't see the costs to compare. And, for 10 days, about how much would we spend on food per meal?? Any inof you can give me would help me to at least start planning.

I thought for budget reasons, we'd stay at the Pop Century, or one of the other budget priced hotels, because I didn't think it really mattered where we stayed, because we won't be spending that much time in our rooms, and we're paying for 2 rooms too. Is one of these resorts going to be too cheesy for teenagers? Or is saving that money worth it, because we'd have more money for other things?

I also thought we could take those "walkie talkie" type things to communicate in the parks, so when it's time to eat, we'll be able to call the boys. Are those allowed, and if so, will we even be able to communicate on them, or will they just not be heard??

We're going in August, yep I know, the hottest and most crowded time, but the only time we have to go in between DH's school, and his Canadian fishing trip the 3rd week of August (which has been planned for a year, so can't move that). I lived in Philly for 8 years and went through many many hot and muggy summers, is it the same type of humidity? Will I be ok wearing sandals (if I found comfy ones), or am I going to want to take my sneakers for most things? Do they have those tube things that you can freeze and carry around your neck there, or should I find one here and bring it with me?

Are the shuttle busses from the budget resorts quick, will we have any problems getting into the parks once we get on a bus, and where else do the shuttle buses take you, to other resorts?? And, can you use other resort facilities, like pools and stuff?

Ok, one last question. I have 2 herniated discs in my neck from the last roller coaster I rode. I've been ok going on our boat, even when it's been rolling waves, and I know I'll never be able to do the "hulk" or whatever big cool roller coasters there are at Universal, but would I be ok going in, say the Tower of Terror, or Pirates or things like that? I know Pirates has a little water splash thing at the end, and I don't remember it being too jarring, and I want to enjoy some rides while I'm there, keeping it at a minimum of course. Anyway, what rides would you think are too jarring to the neck that I should most likely avoid?

Thanks whoever sees this and answers, I whole heartedly appreciate it!!!

Kristy

udsweetpea

01-19-2006, 11:10 AM

Let me see if I can answer all of your questions :)

First, I think that's plenty of time to see everything. August is a rather busy, busy time at Disney, but you should be able to do everything, especially since you don't have to do all of the kiddie things. You might need 2 days at Sea World because its a lot bigger now than it used to be.

Go with the Disney Dining Plan!!! Please! It includes a snack, a counter service meal, and a table service meal every day. With the table service, you can either go to a buffet or a a la carte restaurant. If you go a la carte, you get a beverage, an appetizer, an entree, and dessert. So the kids will be full, believe me. Plus, 18% gratuity is included so you don't have to worry about tipping. I've always asked my guests if its worth it to get the dining plan, and they always say "YES!" Plus, last year in August, the dining plan was practically free because its hurricane season and Disney wants to lure people in. It's definitely a money saver!

The value-priced resorts are mainly for kids, but Pop Century seems to be a little better for teenagers. Great pools with great themes! And the food court is awesome (so I hear). You'll be able to use the meal plan at the food court.

I've always seen people with walkie-talkies, so I'm assuming they're allowed. And you can hear the other end just fine. Everyone in line and around you can ;)

The humidity is definitely worse here than in Philly. I recommend sneakers, but bring your sandals just in case. Even the best sandals can hurt after walking in the parks all day. My best recommendation is to take a break in the middle of the day to go back to the resort and cool off. I've never seen the neck freezer things in Disney. But they do have those spritz bottle/fan things. They sell for over $20 I think, so find something in Philly before you leave.

The shuttle busses have always been inconsistent for me. Sometimes you're standing out there waiting for it forever, but they're sometimes quick. Once you're at a park, you can go to other parks and resorts. But you can't go directly to another resort from your resort. I'm not sure about using other resorts' pools. I know Yacht & Beach Club are strict about their pool, but I'm not sure about the others.

About your neck, I wouldn't go on Tower of Terror or any big rollercoasters, especially Space Mountain. It's painful to me, and I don't even have a bad neck! Pirates should be fine. There's only a slight dip down, but its not jarring. It's the beginning and its in the dark, so be prepared.

I hope I've answered everything. Let me know if you have any other questions!

rene'

01-19-2006, 11:33 AM

udsweetpea ~ We have finally decided to plan our trip for the last week of September. Is that going to be an o.k. time to go? We aren't going to stay on the resort because we are going to use my in-laws timeshare. I just wonder how busy it will be and how hot it will be around that time.

Thanks!

KristyK

01-19-2006, 11:43 AM

Thanks for the info Andrea!! I'm still trying to look at pricing for everything, but the meal plan, I think we'll definitely buy! 2 teenagers can eat you out of house and home! Plus, I've heard about the refillable cups you can buy, I think those will definitely be on the list too!

I don't live in Philly anymore, but I won't ever forget those hot summers! Also thanks for the info about the certain roller coasters, I know I'll have to make sure I probably just do the kiddie rides! LOL

Good luck with your move, and thanks again for all the info! I hope I won't have many more questions, but you never know! :D

PrincessTommi

01-19-2006, 11:46 AM

Random thoughts -

I agree with Andrea, take time out during the day to relax. We went in July once, and a we went back to the resort every afternoon because of the crowds and the heat. I've never seen those neck things there, just the spray fans.

Walkie talkies are definitely allowed, but I don't know how well they work. I've heard good and bad stories of people trying to use them.

The dining plan can be a great savings. Check out the menus on www.allearsnet.com and price some meals and you'll see.

I'm sure you'll be fine at Pop Century. I know that lots of people like it, with kids, without kids, etc. I haven't really been by one, so I can't say personally, sorry. But for being able to be "on property" while saving some money, it's a v. good option.

Busses - they are hit and miss. I had no problems in October to and from the Boardwalk Inn, but my MIL had a really bad time with it when we had split up. Maybe she has bad luck? lol. Depending on where we stay, we usually try to take the bus to the Magic Kingdom, and drive most other places. Resort to MK has been the most reliable, quick bus route that I've seen.

Busses go from resorts to the parks and Downtown Disney. To get to other resorts, you have to switch at a theme park or at DTD. That can be v. time consuming.

Other facilities - no, you can't use other pools and things, they're for the use of that particular resort's guests. Lifeguards can and do card people, especially during super busy and hot times like August.

I wouldn't do Tower of Terror. Pirates should be fine, I would think? You can always ask the Cast Member out in front of the attraction. Here's a table with different restrictions for attractions, and it lists things like back problems on the relevant ones - http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/rr.htm.

Take a couple of comfy pairs of shoes. It can be A LOT of walking, and having a few to switch out is a good idea. I got Crocs (www.crocs.com) for our last trip, and I loved them. I switched out between those and my sneakers.

Good sites for information:
www.allearsnet.com
www.disboards.com (message board)
www.mousesavers.com (good money saving info)

udsweetpea

01-19-2006, 11:49 AM

udsweetpea

01-19-2006, 12:22 PM

Yes, Animal Kingdom is definitely doable in one day!

betsyboop

02-09-2006, 08:46 AM

Hi Andrea- I don't know if you remember, but I booked a 4-night hotel stay at Port Orleans Riverside through you several months ago. I just called to check my reservation (we leave in 6 days!!) and they said that you need to show the hotel your Cast Member ID within 10 days of our arrival. When I said that you are no longer a cast member (I think I read that somewhere- and your location is in PA now, so I'm assuming I'm right), they said that I am no longer eligible for the the 40% discount. Is this true? I'm so upset because that's a big difference in cost that I wasn't factoring in before. I feel funny asking this because I don't really know you, but they suggested that I ask you if you had a friend who is still a cast member who could show his/her ID instead. I know it's kind of a lot to ask since you don't know me from a hole in the wall, but I thought I'd just toss it out there.

udsweetpea

02-09-2006, 11:01 AM

betsyboop

02-09-2006, 01:58 PM

Oh, ok! Sorry if I sounded like a presumptuous jacka$$ in my last post!

DisneyGirl

02-13-2006, 10:08 AM

We are heading to Disney in December (3rd-14th) and would you Recommend?

Micky's very Merry Christams party.......If so how far in advance can I make reservation?

Darin's Girl

02-13-2006, 04:41 PM

I've heard nothing but great things about Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. I am pretty sure you can make reservations for it now- do so quickly- it sells out fast!

Leia

02-15-2006, 04:18 PM

MVMCP generally sells out some nights, but not at all. During the period you'll be there, I would expect the weekend nights to sell out but not the weekday. As far as the event itself is concerned --- not my favorite. My favorite is Mickey's Very Scary Halloween Party, which is huge fun. However, if you want to go to the park when it's less crowded, it's def worth it. The little perks - snow, cookies and hot chocolate, special show/parade were pretty meh in my opinion.

lindybug

02-15-2006, 06:07 PM

DisneyGirl

02-15-2006, 07:38 PM

I have been to MVMCP twice. The best part about it is that there are NO LINES for the rides. (Although, since you are going the first week of December, you may have short lines during the day anyway!) The special parade, fireworks display, and shows are great too. IMO, it is worth the extra money. I'm not sure how far in advance you can book it, but I don't think tickets are available quite yet...

Try to catch the Candlelight Processional at Epcot too!

I never heard of the Candlelight Processional. I will definatly look into it. Thanks.

I'm still tossed if I really want to spend the money for MVMCP..I really just wanted to go so I can see the parades and shows. I have been to Disney a million times but never during the Holiday season so I'm excited to see all their great Holiday Shows and displays.

Leia

02-15-2006, 08:32 PM

If you don't have an annual pass, then I would try to justify it as your pass for the day. You can get into the park as early as 4, and it's open till 12 or 1, so you can still tour for 8 hours, and as lindy pointed out - the lines are way shorter.

Re: Candlelight Processional - I enjoyed it, although my companions did not. It's sort of neat in that it originated at DL and was one of the last things Walt himself created. It was then brought to the MK in Florida and migrated to Epcot fairly recently. It's free with park admission, although lines can be long. This year I went during a weekday, to the first show, and just walked in. You can also get a dinner package which guarantees you admission. Check out the disboards.com for tons of more info.

DisneyGirl

02-16-2006, 07:59 AM

Thanks..I think I will join the Disboards to see if maybe I can pick up a few helpfull hints and things to definatly see while I'm there during the Holiday season.

nancy drew

02-25-2006, 01:14 PM

udsweetpea i PMed you about traveling to disney in may. im totally not trying to be a pain in the a$$ but my husband just told me that we have to have dates set in stone for our trip by tomorrow (we just decided to go yesterday, but apparently his boss needs to know our plans ASAP so he can get the time off). if you cant help out, its no problem at all and we can book through a travel agency or something. no problem. :) i just have to be able to tell dh some dates one way or another :rolleyes:.

udsweetpea

02-25-2006, 02:00 PM

nancy drew I'm so sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. As of right now, I am able to get discounts, but by the time I would have to show my ID in May at the hotel, I'm not sure if I would be eligible for the discount. I'm not sure how long my ID is good for once I go seasonal, and I don't want to leave you in a jam. I'm sorry I can't help you out.

nancy drew

02-25-2006, 04:41 PM

ok. thanks for letting me know. :)

betsyboop

03-02-2006, 05:04 PM

Andrea- I just wanted to thank you again for the use of your discount. DH and I had an AWESOME time at Port Orleans Riverside. We were celebrating his 30th birthday and he said it was by far the best birthday of his life. The hotel was very nice, the weather was perfect, and the crowds weren't too bad even though we were there for Presidents' Day weekend. Thanks again- this trip will be a favorite memory from our before-kids days, I'm sure!

udsweetpea

03-03-2006, 02:24 PM

You are very welcome! I'm glad everything worked out with me faxing my ID instead of being there. That's great you had such a wonderful time!

dana b

03-13-2006, 05:54 PM

does anyone know when exactly spring break is? we're going to wdw the week after easter and i just realized it might be packed :eek:

Little Angel '77

03-15-2006, 05:36 PM

Dh and I are going with my sister and her kids in January. Its going to be a pretty inexpensive trip due to the fact we have a 300 credit with Jetblue.

We'd like to stay at the contemporary, and I was wondering if anyone had any price info. We also are looking to find out- can you ever get deals on passes to the parks? Any tips on getting discounts to Universal or Sea World?

For anyone going to Disney... we found that as adults we could do all the parks in a half day each. Animal Kingdom we did in a half a day and I HIGHLY recommend the Safari Tour! It was amazing. We also were a little tiny bit bored with the Magic Kingdom. I have been there 5 times prior so I've been there done that and not a ton has changed since I was there years ago.

MGM was well worth the trip and is by far my favorite park.
Aerosmith rock and rollar coaster... I can't wait!

Tip to anyone bringing kids. CHECK THEIR HEIGHT! There was nothing sadder than seeing kid after kid be told "no.. you can't ride this ride."

PG-rated

03-16-2006, 10:06 AM

dana b - Spring break for college kids is pretty much always in March. For grade school, it's often either the week before or the week after Easter, but that really depends. I do know that April is a pretty popular time for WDW, though.

Evie

03-16-2006, 12:52 PM

Is anyone a member of the Disney Vacation Club? I am thinking about doing this and want to hear others' experiences. (good or bad!) Is it worth it?

TIA :)

Sabrina

03-17-2006, 09:32 AM

Is anyone a member of the Disney Vacation Club? I am thinking about doing this and want to hear others' experiences. (good or bad!) Is it worth it?

Check out http://www.disboards.com, they have a whole msg board dedicated to DVC!

PrincessTommi

03-17-2006, 12:29 PM

Is anyone a member of the Disney Vacation Club? I am thinking about doing this and want to hear others' experiences. (good or bad!) Is it worth it?

TIA :)
We are - Boardwalk Villas. PM me with any questions. Still somewhat of a newbie, with a smaller contract, but have had great experiences.

The disboards are a great resource as well.

mel_hams

03-23-2006, 06:33 PM

It's next to impossible to get a priority seating at Cinderella's Royal Table unless you call exactly 3 months in advance really early in the morning when the reservations office first opens.

We are going to Disney in mid-September. I called this morning and got reservations for breakfast with the Princesses at Cinderella's Castle, nearly six months in advance. I am confused. THey took my CC# and gave me a reservation confirmation #. The location they told me was Cinderella's Castle. Do you think this is for something other than Cinderella's Royal Table since I was able to book so early?

lindybug

03-23-2006, 07:11 PM

We are going to Disney in mid-September. I called this morning and got reservations for breakfast with the Princesses at Cinderella's Castle, nearly six months in advance. I am confused. THey took my CC# and gave me a reservation confirmation #. The location they told me was Cinderella's Castle. Do you think this is for something other than Cinderella's Royal Table since I was able to book so early?

Yup, that is Cinderella's Royal Table. The current rules (they change sometimes) are:
Dining Reservations can be made at all of the Disney World Table Service Restaurants 180 days in advance.Read more here. (http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=120)

mel_hams

03-23-2006, 07:34 PM

Thanks for your quick response!

isign

03-27-2006, 10:17 AM

I am so excited - we're going to try to go in June or Feb (depends on DH's work schedule). I have never been, so this is going to be a blast. It's just the 2 of us, and we are wanting a romantic vacation as well as a ton of fun. What are some reccomendations as to things to do/see and where to stay?

udsweetpea

03-27-2006, 10:24 AM

My recommendation to couples on a budget with no kids and looking for a romantic resort is Port Orleans Riverside. I love it, and we stay there all the time! Very quiet and very romantic!

isign

03-27-2006, 10:38 AM

That's what I want, but since we live so close to NOLA, DH thinks we should try something different. What about places to eat - what do you reccomend?

PrincessTommi

03-27-2006, 11:48 AM

That's what I want, but since we live so close to NOLA, DH thinks we should try something different. What about places to eat - what do you reccomend?
I've read good reviews about the Caribbean Beach resort. Still a moderate, but maybe more of a theme that your DH is going for. Animal Kingdom Lodge is a favorite of mine (stayed there on my honeymoon), but a deluxe.

You can check out photos at www.allearsnet.com of all the resorts. It's got menus for everywhere as well.

What kinds of foods do you you and DH like? Some of our favorites are Boma at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Rose & Crown (British), Marrakesh (Moroccan), Chefs de France, and Le Cellier (steakhouse) at Epcot. We loved Spoodles on the Boardwalk as well.

Favorite things to see - All the evening shows - Fantasmic at Disney MGM Studios, Illuminations at Epcot and Wishes at MK. Mickey's Philharmagic is a 3-D movie in Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom, and it's amazing. Soarin' at Epcot is another new attraction, and is at the top of my list. Check out this page: http://www.allearsnet.com/tp/themeparks.htm

There are so many things to do and see. But they will all be there when you go back, so my biggest piece of advice it don't try to kill yourself doing *everything*. Take time to enjoy where you are and what you are doing, instead of focusing on a timeline so you can hit every spot.

My favorite guidbook is The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0764583417/sr=8-1/qid=1143488817/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-1863910-8990361?%5Fencoding=UTF8 Lots of information about every attraction, resort and restaurant. I highly recommend it, especially to a first time WDW guest.

udsweetpea

03-27-2006, 01:02 PM

That's what I want, but since we live so close to NOLA, DH thinks we should try something different. What about places to eat - what do you reccomend?

Riverside isn't modeled after New Orleans though. That's Port Orleans French Quarter.

PrincessTommi

03-28-2006, 02:05 PM

Riverside isn't modeled after New Orleans though. That's Port Orleans French Quarter.
True POFQ = NOLA French Quarter theme, but an antebellum South / plantation theme is pretty close to home for the NOLA and southern Louisiana area.

I think the Wilderness Lodge is amazing, but can't see myself staying there as all my vacations growing up were to the Rocky Mountains and it's not an *exotic* locale for me.

ManteoChik

03-29-2006, 10:25 AM

I also really liked the Wilderness Lodge. We always stay in a suit with the kitchens so we were out in a seperate part of the hotel (a building not attached to the main one) and it's soooo quiet there. Also, the pools are nice and their restaurant is WONDERFUL!

I love the Boardwalk Inn too.....it's also really pretty and I love their clown pool...lol.

savannahgrl

03-29-2006, 06:31 PM

I just found this thread. What a great thread idea. udsweetpea, thanks for offering us your info on Disney!

isign

04-02-2006, 08:53 AM

We are thinking about going in mid/late oct when its much cooler and hurricane season is done with (don't want to be there and then have to come back early due to evacuations here). There's a chance that I might be pg, early in my 2nd trimester, at the most. I know big rides are out, but I'm not really into them anyways, so that doesn't bother me. Would this be a yes or a no to go?

lindybug

04-02-2006, 09:48 AM

isign ~ YES! I went early in my pregnancy, when I was about 8 weeks. DH and I are going back this month, when I will be about 27 weeks. (Our "babymoon.")

The big fun rides are out, but there are lots of other attractions to see and do in the parks. Not to mention everything there is to do outside of the theme parks... Lounging on the beach or at the pool at your resort, romantic meals with your DH at all the great restaurants, a prenatal massage at the Grand Floridian Spa... Your choices are endless.

October is a great time of year to go... The weather is lovely and the crowds are minimal.

Good luck!

isign

04-02-2006, 12:10 PM

Great! We were going to go in June, but have to travel your way for my brother's wedding in Aug, so we decided to push it back to Oct, so we can spread out vacation time. Where did/are you going to stay?

lindybug

04-02-2006, 01:06 PM

isign ~ We are staying at the Polynesian. We love it there... Very relaxing and romantic. When we went in November, we stayed at Coronado Springs to try and save some money. It was nice too, but IMO nothing can compare to the deluxe resorts. (Any of them!)

Good luck.

isign

04-02-2006, 01:13 PM

Is there a big price difference in the time that you go? What about the meal packages, would you reccomend one over the other?

KristyK

04-22-2006, 11:18 AM

Ok all you Disney-aholics. I'm sorry to bug you and bump this post back up, but the excitement in my old body keeps me wanting more and more! So, please, if anyone can give me a few answers, I'd love to hear them!

TIA!!

1. We are staying at the Port Orleans Riverside, with 2 teenagers. I booked this on the recommendation of many of you that loved this resort! And, I'm so darned excited, I can't believe it! :D Anyway, I haven't been able to find if they have a "continental" breakfast in the lobby, or wherever they'd have it? Do they have one? It was one of our thoughts in feeding the 2 boys, although we bought the meal plan for the other 2 meals of the day.

2. I know August is hotter than blazes, and humid, but do you think there will possibly be "less" people in the park, because of the hot and humid weather, or will it be just as packed as the rest of the summer?

3. Is SPF 45 going to be enough for my white-girl skin?

4. Should we make definite plans for each park...like go to this first, this thing 2nd, etc. Or should we just play it by ear? I'm an explorer, so I was thinking that would work for me, but not sure if I shouldn't "plan" the boys things more, so they can get more experiences (roller coasters, etc). What do you think?

5. What is the most "romantic" restaurant in all the parks? I'm talking....NO children (if possible!). My DH and I want one romantic night just for us! We figured we make the reservations now, to make sure we get them. If there are no restaurants, how about maybe a bar, that has great food that we could be child-free? I don't hate children, were going to be so overwhelmed with not only the crowds, but with kids we'd like at least one night off (as I'm sure a lot of the parents there would like! :p ).

6. Are the cups that you buy for drinks (pop, iced tea), only for use in the hotel you're staying in, or is there a cup that you can take with you to every park and get the drinks? If it's only for the resorts, is it only for the one you're at, or can you use it at other Disney resorts too?

I'm sure I'll have more questions as the time goes by, and I most certainly appreciate all the answers I get!

Again...TIA!!!

Darin's Girl

04-23-2006, 11:57 AM

Hey Kristy! I am so excited for you! A tad bit jealous, but excited none the less! ;) I'll try to answer your questions for you, maybe some of the others can correct me if I am wrong.

1. Anyway, I haven't been able to find if they have a "continental" breakfast in the lobby, or wherever they'd have it? Do they have one? It was one of our thoughts in feeding the 2 boys, although we bought the meal plan for the other 2 meals of the day.

Good choice in POR!! I loved it!! They do NOT have a free continental breakfast. What I would suggest is stopping on your way to the mouse and grabbing some muffins, granola bars, cereal and mild (if you plan on getting a fridge) and go from there. Or you can mail/UPS your breakfast items from home- call and get the hotel's mailing address and label it to attn: your name, guest and your check-in date.

2. I know August is hotter than blazes, and humid, but do you think there will possibly be "less" people in the park, because of the hot and humid weather, or will it be just as packed as the rest of the summer?
It will be just as busy! A little heat and humidity doesn't scare the die-hards! :D

3. Is SPF 45 going to be enough for my white-girl skin?
45 will be fine! Just remember to reapply it often! And get the sport kind that doesn't sweat off.

4. Should we make definite plans for each park...like go to this first, this thing 2nd, etc. Or should we just play it by ear? I'm an explorer, so I was thinking that would work for me, but not sure if I shouldn't "plan" the boys things more, so they can get more experiences (roller coasters, etc). What do you think?
I say plan on the things that are MUST see for you guys and wing it from there. 2 teens will probably have different ideas of must sees that parents! Plan early and get fastpasses to the attractions early in the day!

5. What is the most "romantic" restaurant in all the parks? I'm talking....NO children (if possible!). My DH and I want one romantic night just for us! We figured we make the reservations now, to make sure we get them. If there are no restaurants, how about maybe a bar, that has great food that we could be child-free? I don't hate children, were going to be so overwhelmed with not only the crowds, but with kids we'd like at least one night off (as I'm sure a lot of the parents there would like! ).
It's not romantic, but we LOVED Jellyrolls a dueling piano bar at the Boardwalk Inn. It's just FUN! No dinner searved, just drinks and popcorn and they do charge a cover fee if you get there past a certain time. As far as romantic, hmmmmmm The Grand Floridian has some nice restaurants- I ate at Citricos- YUM! They also have Victoria & Albert's which is SUPER $$$!! Also check out the California Grill in the Contemporary Resort- if you get there at the right time you have an awesoem view of the water show. In the parks I loved Les Chefs de France in Epcot.

6. Are the cups that you buy for drinks (pop, iced tea), only for use in the hotel you're staying in, or is there a cup that you can take with you to every park and get the drinks? If it's only for the resorts, is it only for the one you're at, or can you use it at other Disney resorts too?
Last time I was there they were for your resort only. The water parks each have thier own cup. I didn't see (or don't remember) any of the other parks having cups that you can refill. But that was 3 years ago.

I hope that helped! Let me know if you have any more questions! I LOVE talking Disney!

KristyK

04-23-2006, 08:42 PM

Thanks for the info Emily! I'll be checking out those restaurants and the bar recommendations! DH is kinda pissed no continental breakfast, but what the heck, we've paid for all the other meals, and I think stopping at a store, or mailing stuff is a good idea! Bummer about the cups, but thats ok too, I'll probably drink just water the whole time anyway. And the boys should too.

Thanks again, I'm sure I'll be thinking of more things as the months go by.

BTW, You're DD is adorable!

Darin's Girl

04-23-2006, 09:35 PM

You're more than welcome Kristy! One word of advice for water- avoid the water fountains and stick with the bottled water! They have horrible sulfer-y water! We bought sports water bottle similar to this (http://www.waterfilters.net/culligan/waterbottles/sb-2.htm) and it helped with a little of the sulfer taste. Next time we'll just buy the water bottles at the park and skip carrying the sports bottle.

Thanks for the compliment on my daughter! :D

sarahh

04-25-2006, 08:40 AM

PrincessTommi

04-25-2006, 08:47 AM

I leave for a last-minute, all-expenses paid trip to Disney in just FOUR days! My sister is paying for me and my mom to go down with the rest of her family. I am soooo excited.

We're staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge in a Savannah View room!! :D

Just had to share my excitement!
Sarah, that is awesome! We stayed in a Savannah View room at AKL on our honeymoon, and I just loved it. It's an amazing resort. We always get back there and have dinner at Boma on our trips.

Have a great time!

sarahh

04-25-2006, 09:52 AM

Sarah, that is awesome! We stayed in a Savannah View room at AKL on our honeymoon, and I just loved it. It's an amazing resort. We always get back there and have dinner at Boma on our trips.

Have a great time!Thanks so much! I am sooo excited to go! I have always wanted to stay at the AKL. The one and only other time I have been to DW we stayed at the Coronado Spring (which was great) and I always said I wanted to stay at AKL next time!

We are having dinner at Boma the night I arrive. I heard the Zebra Dome are to die for!

udsweetpea

04-25-2006, 02:23 PM

I was just about to suggest Boma, and there you are already planning to go! Have a magical time! I'm extremely jealous!

KristyK

04-26-2006, 07:18 AM

Sarah, how exciting! I'm jealous, but very happy and exited for you! Have a great time, which I know you will! Come and tell us how everything went once you get back!

I'm about ready to start counting days for my trip...I can't wait either! :D

Have fun!!

udsweetpea

04-26-2006, 07:56 AM

Oh, and we want to see pictures too!

sarahh

04-26-2006, 10:47 AM

Thanks ladies...only three more days! :)

I'll definitely be back with plenty of photos!

dzmattie

05-01-2006, 12:17 PM

PrincessTommi

05-01-2006, 01:28 PM

Hi all -

We are considering taking a last minute trip to Disney World the week of May 15th - we have a 2 year old. We would be staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge - looks like it is $330 a night or so - does anyone have any suggestions for getting a cheaper hotel in the park at such short notice? We have been to Disney many times and it is our favorite place so we love to go....but I am wondering if we are nuts to spend $3500 on a last minute vaction - airfare, tickets, hotel, etc....what do you all think???
If you want to stay on property, but don't want to pay that much per night, I would look at moderate resorts. I've seen great reviews on Port Orleans (both Riverside and French Quarter), and Coronado Springs. Caribbean Beach Resort is also a moderate. There are also hotels near Downtown Disney (Royal Plaza, Hilton, Grosvenor) that are *on property*, that may be a little cheaper.

Unfortunately, Disney's getting away from discounted hotel rooms. They've gone more to package promotions where you are paying rack rate and getting a *deal* in some other form - right now it's dining.

www.mousesavers.com is a good website that is kept up to date with ways to save money on Disney trips.

LyLMyssChaos

05-01-2006, 01:40 PM

5. What is the most "romantic" restaurant in all the parks? I'm talking....NO children (if possible!). My DH and I want one romantic night just for us! We figured we make the reservations now, to make sure we get them. If there are no restaurants, how about maybe a bar, that has great food that we could be child-free? I don't hate children, were going to be so overwhelmed with not only the crowds, but with kids we'd like at least one night off (as I'm sure a lot of the parents there would like! :p ).

I just wanted to chime in with something DH and I did at DisneyWorld on our Honeymoon that was really romantic. We ate at Tony's Town Square (it is the restaurant from Lady & The Tramp) and because it was our honeymoon, they seated us in an sort of isolated spot on the porch, decorated our table and we were able to see the entire parade of lights (I forget what it's called) and watch the fireworks display from our table. It was awesome. It can't hurt to call and ask, they might do something similar for you?

dzmattie

05-01-2006, 01:54 PM

Has anyone stayed at the Embassy Suites and done the Disney parks each day? We would probably rent a car in this case....

LyLMyssChaos

05-01-2006, 03:02 PM

We stayed at the Wyndham Orlando(corner of Sand Lake and I-Drive) and did the parks for a few days for our honeymoon. I liked it a lot more that way since we didn't have kids. That way we could explore all types of stuff in Orlando.

lindybug

05-01-2006, 03:47 PM

What is the most "romantic" restaurant in all the parks? I'm talking....NO children (if possible!). My DH and I want one romantic night just for us! We figured we make the reservations now, to make sure we get them. If there are no restaurants, how about maybe a bar, that has great food that we could be child-free? I don't hate children, were going to be so overwhelmed with not only the crowds, but with kids we'd like at least one night off (as I'm sure a lot of the parents there would like! :p ).
Definitely Victoria and Albert's at the Grand Floridian. It's a six course fixed price menu. Very romantic. Jackets required. No kids. DH and I got engaged there.

We are considering taking a last minute trip to Disney World the week of May 15th - we have a 2 year old. We would be staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge - looks like it is $330 a night or so - does anyone have any suggestions for getting a cheaper hotel in the park at such short notice? We have been to Disney many times and it is our favorite place so we love to go....but I am wondering if we are nuts to spend $3500 on a last minute vaction - airfare, tickets, hotel, etc....what do you all think???
Did you look into purchasing an annual pass for one of you? You might be able to save $100/night on the room rate, which can be worth it.

Passholder discounts are currently available for check-ins through 6/3/06. (http://www.mousesavers.com/disneyresorts.html#ap)

Here's a cost comparison chart (http://www.mousesavers.com/packagevsap.html) to help.

rene'

05-02-2006, 09:42 AM

I just booked our plane tickets to Orlando at the end of September. We won't be staying on site, we will only spend two days at Disneyworld. Can anyone tell me the places that we "can't miss" that we should do in those two days? We have two DD's, 8 & 11. I'm thinking the Magical Kingdom should be a day, but what should be the highest priority on day 2?

TIA!

Secret_Squirrel

05-05-2006, 03:35 PM

I am so excited!!

I've been to Disneyland about 6 times and I've always wanted to go to Disneyworld. I think I'm more excited than my kids, lol.

We've got 6 nights/7 days with the free dining package and are staying at Port Orleans French Quarter (since that's my fav. part of DL). It's the end of August, so it's going to be hot and a little rainey. Any tips on dealing with the heat are appreciated. I'm planning getting to the park early and having lunch in air conditioned restaurants, and taking trips back to the hotel for a swim mid-day.

So far we have reservations at:
Cinderella's Royal Table for character breakfast
The Coral Reef for lunch
Hollywood and Vine for dinner (fantasmic package)
Donald's Breakfastasaurus, character breakfast
Boma for dinner

Places we're considering:
Liberty Tavern for dinner
Sci-Fi Drive Inn, lunch (def. going to see - do we need res.?)

Any other places we should eat?

udsweetpea

05-05-2006, 04:40 PM

I would definitely recommend reservations to any restaurant on property, and Sci-Fi books up fast even for lunch. I would also recommend Park Fare at the Grand Floridian for dinner or breakfast. It's a character dining location... Mary Poppins and friends for breakfast, and Cinderella and friends for dinner. Best buffet food at Disney!

Can't really offer up any tips on dealing with the heat. It rains around 3pm every afternoon for about an hour, so be prepared.

Have a great time!

colleenjoy

05-15-2006, 05:12 AM

bellaprincess

05-15-2006, 06:26 AM

my dh and i and another couple are going to orlando in two weeks (no kids, unless you count the dh) we are going to be there for a week and are planning on doing either 2 or 3 day park hopper.

any ideas on which days of the week would be the least crowded? we figured we should stay away on the weekends, but weren't sure if there were better days during the week to go.

thanks

Colleen

Colleen: We went to the parks a week ago today ( last Monday). We park hopped and went to all 4 Disney Parks and the lines were very long at all the parks. The waits were 75 minutes plus for most attractions(without "fastpass"), so I wouldn't recommend going on a Monday.
I recommend trying to get fastpasses to avoid most of the long waits, but get them early because they can run out fast. For example, the day we went the fastpasses were all gone by 2pm for Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom. The weather has been nice and sunny in Florida and it has been getting into the mid 90's most days here ( it is super hot, so try and stay hydrated!).
Have fun! :)

KristyK

05-17-2006, 03:29 PM

Sorry I'm being a pest ladies, but I have another question.

When we go to V&A for dinner, I know they told me no capri's, formal dress, etc. But, I don't know if I need to buy something very fancy, like a basic black formal dress, or would a "peasant" type skirt work? I have several of those in black, and some with patterns. Is that too non-formal? I also have very cute leather sandals with a heel that have a cute flower on the top, I bought them to wear out to dinner, etc. They told me no sandals, but then said, "oh dressy sandals are ok". I consider these dressy.

What do you think? I know my DH needs a dinner jacket, we are going in a week or so to buy him a new suit for work, so we figured we'd buy him a light dinner jacket at the same time.

Thoughts, ideas? TIA!!!

PrincessTommi

05-17-2006, 04:07 PM

KristyK

05-17-2006, 06:01 PM

Thanks Tommi! Thats kind of what I was thinking....now to try and find a nice "formal" type dress, that isn't too hot for an August summer!

1MegMeg

05-24-2006, 05:24 AM

PrincessTommi

05-26-2006, 09:13 AM

Good morning everyone! :)

Can someone please weigh in on the timing/logistics of my potential plan?

Next weekend we are going to WDW for our 2nd anniversary and on Saturday night we have reservations at the Flying Fish (at the Boardwalk) at 7pm. We would like to go see Wishes at the Magic Kingdom after that; Wishes starts at 10p. Assuming we are at dinner 1.5 - 2 hours, our plan is to drive to either the Contemporary, Grand Floridian, or the Polynesian, park, and ride the monorail over to the MK to see Wishes. After that, we'll come back to whichever hotel we parked at and visit the lounge. :p

So, do you think I am allowing enough time to get from the Boardwalk to MK?

Thanks!!

Technically, you're not supposed to park at a resort for theme park access. The guard will ask your business at the resort (visiting the resort and the lounge) and you'll be given a 3-hour parking pass if parking is available. They could send you back out to park at the TTC, but that's not very likely at all.

I love the Tambu Lounge at the Polynesian. :D Beware the drink that comes in the pinapple, it's seriously strong.

It's not a long trip from the Boardwalk to the MK area. With walking to your car at the BW, driving, parking (at the TTC or at any of the resorts), waiting for transport, getting through the turnstiles, etc, I think an hour should give you just enough time. I would be personally comfortable with that time frame for me and DH with a car.

The best spot for viewing Wishes is right in the middle of Main Street. So even though it might be crowded (is Spectromagic going on right before Wishes?), I suggest just walking in and finding a spot anywhere between the train station and the hub in front of Cinderella Castle.

Happy Anniversary! I hope you have a fantastic trip! :)

udsweetpea

05-26-2006, 12:36 PM

Technically, you're not supposed to park at a resort for park access.

If you're having dinner there, you can park there.

PrincessTommi

05-26-2006, 02:59 PM

If you're having dinner there, you can park there.

True, which is why she will have no problem parking at the Boardwalk for dinner at Flying Fish. If she shows up at one of the 3 MK resorts and tells the guard she's there to take the monorail to get to the MK to see Wishes, she'll the directed to the TTC. Changed my earlier post to read "theme park access".

Dinner, going to the lounge, and sightseeing and shopping at the resort are all reasons for a 3-hour resort parking pass to be given at any resort.

linda_loo

05-26-2006, 03:26 PM

ManteoChik

05-26-2006, 03:52 PM

my dh and i and another couple are going to orlando in two weeks (no kids, unless you count the dh) we are going to be there for a week and are planning on doing either 2 or 3 day park hopper.

any ideas on which days of the week would be the least crowded? we figured we should stay away on the weekends, but weren't sure if there were better days during the week to go.

thanks :D

Colleen

I've got no advice one which day to go, because in all honesty they are packed everyday..lol. One suggestion I would make is unless you are dead set on going to the Magic Kingdom, I'd avoid it and spend my time at MGM, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot. MK is usually the most crowded because its the "family park", lots of children = lots of crowds. It's been my experience that for most families if they go to one park it'll be the MK.

lawyergirl25

06-09-2006, 10:12 AM

Gah! I'm about to lose my mind!

My family is going to WDW the week of the 18th and I'm just now getting to ordering the tickets (procrastinator, I know). I spent all yesterday afternoon and this morning trying to buy tickets from the Disney website and I keep getting error messages: "Our site is down for scheduled maintenance" or "Cannot complete order due to high transaction rates."

WTH is going on?? Is this normal?

linda_loo

06-09-2006, 10:19 AM

I bought ours from Ticket Mania, got a good deal and had them delivered to our hotel room.

I am pm'ing you right now.

http://www.ticketmania.com/

PrincessTommi

06-09-2006, 10:29 AM

We've ordered tickets from Ticketmania in the past with no problems either, although we had ours mailed.

Disney Parks just announced a big promotion/celebration Wednesday night (http://www.allearsnet.com/news/hnews.htm), so they may have server load and/or maintenance problems related to that.

lawyergirl25

06-09-2006, 10:34 AM

Thanks Linda and princesstommi! I just ordered our tickets from Ticketmania. :)

T&M'sMommy

06-14-2006, 07:14 AM

I'd love some advice!!! We have some money to spend on a vacation and I'm trying to convince dh that Disney World would be awesome, since my almost 4 year old is a Buzz Lightyear freak. We'd only go to the Magic Kingdom for a day, since dh would only go if we could do something he'd like to do the next day. I have a friend that works on the Disney Cruise Lines, so she has mentioned getting us some discounts. What do you think of the campground? Tips? We're on a pretty tight budget, since gas would eat up a lot of $$. We're coming from Ontario and dh won't fly.

udsweetpea

06-14-2006, 07:19 AM

I'm pretty sure your friend can get the 40% room discount. Therefore, it might be possible you can stay at the All-Star Resorts for around $47/night. I think the moderate resorts are around $70/night with the discount.

But if she can't get the discount, the campground is nice. I've never stayed there but when jogging on the trail over there all the time. Having all of the animals around might be fun for the kids.

T&M'sMommy

06-14-2006, 07:35 AM

Wow are you fast!!! Thanks. I'll have to ask her. Any tips though? I am pretty clueless on Disney World. I went once when I was 13. I ended up by myself, my friends ditched me and I walked around a lot. I didn't actually do anything, but the Tom Sawyer boat ride or something like that. What are the fast hopper(?) passes? I feel so lost...LOL!

KristyK

06-14-2006, 08:47 AM

Not sure if this has been answered, but while I'm waiting for my GF to get here, I'll ask really quick.

Are the fireworks the Wishes show? And, is the California Grill the best place to view them? If so, should we make reservations for dinner, or can we just make dessert reservations for later at night? We're really early eaters, so dinner at dark for fireworks might not work for us.

TIA!!

udsweetpea

06-14-2006, 12:42 PM

Yes, Wishes is a fireworks show. The best place to see them is in Magic Kingdom in front of the castle or off to either side. I've seen them from the California Grill, and its not that great of a view. Another great view is from the beach at the Polynesian Resort.

myshel

06-21-2006, 08:49 AM

DH and I just got back from a week at WDW. We went with BIL and his FI and our SIL. Of course, DS (who is 11 months) accompanied us as well. I decided to give an opinion of the places and things we saw. Maybe it'd help some of you who are planning.

A few general observations:

Stay on the property if you can at all help it. It is so worth it and feels like a vacation in itself. We stayed at Coronado Springs (and moderate resort) and loved it.
We used The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World to help us in our planning, and it really worked.
The people were really friendly everywhere we went.

Food specific observations:

We opted for the dining plan, and we're so glad we did. It was awesome.
We ate at six sit-down dinner places while we were there: Wolfgang Puck's Cafe (Downtown Disney), Crystal Palace (Magic Kingdom), Whispering Canyons Cafe (Wilderness Lodge), Boma (Animal Kingdon Lodge), Biergarten (Epcot), and the Yatchsman (Yatch Club).Wolfgang Puck was our least favorite and Yatchsman was our favorite. The Crystal Palace has a very nice Pooh character buffet. DS met all of the Pooh characters there.
The counter service (fast food type) meals were pretty much the same everywhere we went, though we liked the ones at MK, Epcot, and our resort hotel the best.

Park Observations:

We visited all four parks, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Quest. Animal Kingdom and MGM can easily be toured in a day. MK and Epcot take a bit longer (although we just had one day).
I hated Disney Quest; DH loved it. Strollers are not allowed into Disney Quest at all.
Animal Kingdom was my least favorite park. For some reason it seemed less Disney-ish to me. My favorite rides there were Dinosaur and the Safari.
Epcot was great. We loved the world showcases area. The night show, Illuminations is quite nice and can be seen well from the world showcases area.
We loved MGM. Our favorite rides there were Rock-n-Rollercoaster and Tower of Terror. This park has a lot more shows to see. The night show, Fantasmic, was our VERY favorite night show. Completely awesome!
Magic Kingdom was pure Disney. Our favorite rides there were Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, Buzzlight Year, and the Haunted Mansion. DS loved It's a Small World. The night show, Wishes, is great.

Other tidbits:

Use fastpass. This is a ticket system that allows you to "cut" in line ahead of other people. Because of fastpass, we rarely waited in a line longer than 20minutes. The longest line we waited in was for the Peter Pan ride at MK nd we never even rode the damn ride. There are certain rules to the fastpass system, but the biggest one is that everyone must have their own fastpass ticket for an attraction. There were many families when we were there that thought they only needed one per group.
If you have small children that cannot ride big rides, they have a "baby swap" system that is similar to fastpass. This was another one of our tricks to avoid lines. Plus, the "baby swap" ticket allows for up to two people to join the parent. This allowed my SIL, BIL, and even DH to ride an attraction twice if they wanted to.

Hmm... I think that's all. I can't claim to be a Disney expert, but I did learn a lot while there.

KristyK

07-05-2006, 07:56 PM

Sorry about not answering in this thread earlier! Andrea, thanks for the info about the fireworks.

Myshel, good hints!!

Ok, so I'm freaked now......don't ask me why. I've gotten a few books about our trip, things to do, etc. I am really excited....but, as I'm reading the descriptions of our rooms there is no mention of air conditioning! They are listed as ceiling fans, refrigerators, etc. But...NO AC?? Please tell me that I'm not going to be there in August and not be able to go back to my room to cool off. Please reassure me that there is AC in my room!! Not that I wouldn't just go in the pool all day if need be.

TIA!!

lindybug

07-05-2006, 08:07 PM

Please reassure me that there is AC in my room!!

Where are you staying? If you're on Disney property, there is definitely A/C in all the rooms. (They probably don't mention it, since it's a given.) Even if you're off property, there must be A/C in the rooms. It is FL after all! But if you're concerned, just call the hotel. ;)

Have fun!

LKMang

07-06-2006, 10:53 AM

We will be going down to Orlando in a couple weeks and I have a question. We aren't interested in going to Disney, but I really want to see the fireworks (we missed them last year due to exhaustion from hitting 3 parks in one day :eek: ). Anyway, I remember as we were going back to our car that the ferry would probably be a really cool place to see them. Would they let you pay for parking and just ride the ferry back and forth to watch the fireworks?

Thanks!!

lindybug

07-06-2006, 12:58 PM

Would they let you pay for parking and just ride the ferry back and forth to watch the fireworks?

I don't see why not... BUT a better option might be to park at the Polynesian Resort. You can tell them you are going to eat dinner at one of the restaurants there, and they'll let you park there for free for a few hours. The Transportation and Ticket Center (where you get the ferry) is right next to the Poly... Maybe a 3 minute walk. You can also watch the fireworks from the beach there, which is really nice.

KristyK

07-06-2006, 03:41 PM

Thanks for the info Lindy! I know it was crazy of me to worry about, since I felt the same way as you

It is FL after all!
I thought who in their right mind would build hotels in FL without AC? Yeah, I've lost it! :D

We're staying at Port Orleans Riverside and can't wait!

Mom2Cole

07-08-2006, 11:10 AM

I was wondering if one of you could help me.

We are planning on going back to WDW in October of this year. Last year we went October 13-20th and it was slightly busy, due to the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday and the kiddos being out of school. We were throwing the idea around of going October 6-13 this year, but I noticed the Canadian holiday falls on Monday the 9th this year. We could go on the 13-20th again, but don't know if we will run into the crowds again this year. :confused: Those are the only two weeks in October we could go.

So, I was wondering if any of you could help me out here. Which week would be better because of the holiday? I am not sure when school is out for the kids in Canada, so I am at a loss there.

I thought about pushing the trip back to November, but didn't know how the weather would be and didn't want to cut it too close to Thanksgiving. Just wondering if anyone has any input. Thanks so much!!

ManteoChik

07-08-2006, 02:05 PM

Honestly, I don't think going one week or the next is going to make a difference. WDW is busy no matter when you go, although there are times that are more busy than others.

That being said, I've been during pretty much each month and IMO, the week before Christmas was the best time I've ever been - I didn't wait in a single line the whole time. November is a not a bad time in FL at all. In fact, its quite nice because you aren't dripping wet from the heat. I actually spent thanksgiving at WDW as a kid once.

I think that if October is when you want to go you should be fine. I wouldn't worry too much about the Canadian schools but like I said, there is no way to escape a crowd at WDW. :D

udsweetpea

07-08-2006, 02:19 PM

Could you maybe go in September? The week right after Labor Day is completely dead. They had to start rides because we were the only people in line.

KristyK

07-22-2006, 07:56 AM

PrincessTommi

07-22-2006, 09:08 AM

One more question ladies, and I promise....well maybe.....that I won't ask anymore! :D

Tips....we are on the Disney Dining Plan and tips are included with meals. Whats the scoop on tips elsewhere? Are we allowed to tip the maids, the bellboy (if there is one), and what should it be? I'd hate to be cheap and not remember them just because I've already put the money out for tips elsewhere.

TIA!! I've only got 7 more days till we leave!! WOOHOOO!!!
Tip bell staff if they help you to/from your room. $1-2 per bag. Valet staff, if you use the service - $2 at pickup.

Housekeeping is not a tipped position, but they can and do receive tips. We'll either leave $2-5 dollars a day, or $20 at the end of a week. But I tend to tip extra most places, and tipping housekeeping is a truly optional thing, so don't think twice about it if you weren't planning on it or don't want to.

For things like service in the parks and resorts, you don't have to tip. Face painters can't accept tips, etc.

Hope you have a fantastic trip! :)

KristyK

07-22-2006, 09:14 AM

Thanks Tommi for the info. I hate to be cheap, so I'll most likely do the daily tipping for the housekeepers, I don't want someone on their day off to get stiffed if I only leave one on the last day.

Ok, I lied.

DH just told me that I need to ask if there is any type of grocery stores around there. We aren't renting a car and were planning on sending stuff UPS to ourselves at the resort (breakfast foods, etc), but is there somewhere we can buy a 1/2 gallon of milk or oj? We only paid for lunch/dinner dining plan figuring we could eat in our room before we went to the parks. We're at Port Orleans Riverside.

TIA........again! :D

PrincessTommi

07-22-2006, 09:39 AM

Found this on allearsnet.com for POR - http://www.allearsnet.com/acc/faq_dxl.htm

Fulton's General Store is located in the Resort commercial center, adjacent to the River Roost Lounge (was called Cotton Co-op Lounge). Fulton's (named after the famed steamboat inventor) carries a large assortment of postcards, souvenirs, over the counter pharmacy needs and convenience items. There's a bulk candy counter, a snack area with a limited selection of liquor, munchies, cold beverages, and toiletries.

You may be able to get milk and OJ there. I'm not familiar with many resorts, we were able to get a few things like that at one of the shops at the Boardwalk on our last trip. You might want to call the resort directly to find out - Phone 407-934-6000 (from allearsnet as well).

KristyK

07-22-2006, 12:39 PM

Thanks again!!

ManteoChik

07-22-2006, 05:22 PM

Kristy - what resort are you staying at???? We normally get a 1 or 2 bedroom suite that comes with a kitchen and we stay at the Boarwalk Inn or at the Wilderness Lodge in the Villas. Anyway, both places have the "store/gift shop" in them and its been my experience that there has always been basic food items there.

For example, we always pop down in the lobby store and buy eggs, milk, bread, cereal, juice, ect.. They also have like Campbell's soups and crackers and such so you should be able to buy all those things there it you are staying on resort.

We normally just do room service for breakfast a couple mornings but on the days that we aren't into eating a huge breakfast its nice to have the kitchen in the room where we can make cereal or eggs and toast.

T&M'sMommy

07-22-2006, 08:13 PM

I need some more advice. Friend had given away all of her free passes to Disney World, so we decided not to go. Now my friend has two extra passes, which would cover dh and I into Disney World. She says she can't get us her employee hotel discount because she's using it for herself. Any thoughts on cheap, cheap lodging?? Dh has approx 9 days off and we would be driving, so staying for maybe a couple of days?

udsweetpea

07-22-2006, 08:57 PM

Is your friend a Disney employee? If so, let her know she can still use her cast member discount for your room.

T&M'sMommy

07-23-2006, 05:46 AM

She is a childcare worker on one of the Disney Cruise Ships. She's not working right in Disney World, but travels to the Caribbean every couple of days.:p Her last day of work(she's done her contract) is around the 14th of August. Same time as our holidays.

sem426

07-24-2006, 11:28 AM

My IL's are already trying to book us for NEXT Xmas time to go with them to Disney. Besides the fact that I really don't want to go away on vacation with them :rolleyes: .....won't Orlando be cold that time of year? Are the lines at Disney ridiculous during holiday time? My DD will just be 2 then...is she still too young to really appreciate Disney? I'm wondering how she will ever nap during the day!
I'm hoping if I can have some "legitimate" reasons why we shouldn't go DH will go along w/me and not agree to the trip!! I also might be pg...that is around the time DH and I want to try for #2...but I don't want to tell them that since it's none of their business:) !

myshel

07-24-2006, 12:36 PM

It sounds like you're really looking for an excuse to give your ILs, so you don't have to travel with them. I'd say that if you don't want to go, just tell them that and let DH do the explaining.

But to answer your questions...

I do think Disney is busy during Christmas time, but I think Disney is still do-able during busy times. We did it this past June which seemed to be a busy time as well.

Orlando won't be *cold* in comparison to say Buffalo, NY or Minnesota; it will probably be fall-like, which I think would be perfect to visit Disney.

We took DS this past June to Disney, and he was 11 months old. Yes, he was too young to appreciate Disney like an adult or older child would, but he did enjoy himself. He liked some of the shows and really liked many of the rides at Magic Kingdom. He seemed interested in the colors, sounds, and people too.

As far as the nap situation goes, DS was still st two naps per day when we went to Disney. He took his morning nap in the stroller as we traveled through the parks. This wasn't a great nap, but it worked well enough. After lunch (early afternoon), we always went back to our hotel (because we stayed on Disney property which I highly recommend). DS slept in the travel crib (provided by Disney) for 2-3 hours. After his nap, we'd head back to the particular day's park for the evening. He usually fell asleep at the parks in the evening (at his normal bedtime) while cruising in his stroller. It worked out well for us.

We were supposed to make the trip with my ILs, but my MIL was severely injured in car accident four months before we were supposed to go. Because of this, MIL and FIL couldn't go. My BIL and his fiancee and SIL went as scheduled. Honestly, there are times that I wished the ILs had still been able to go. We had to do some shifting when it came to riding rides to accomodate everyone. Luckily, BIL's fiancee didn't like many of the thrill rides, and she sat out with DS. Still, there were a few nights where DH and I would have liked to slip off by ourselves or go with BIL to the clubs on Pleasure Island, but we couldn't because of DS. If the ILs had gone, we would have done a lot more.

It may not be as bad as you think, but if you are truly opposed to your most inner core, don't go. You'll only be unhappy.

ETA: About the pg thing... you can still do Disney pg. Some friends of ours used Disney as their "babymoon" before their first DC was born. I saw tons of pg women everywhere we went. Sure, you can't do everything, but there's enough to do. Obviously, late pg wouldn't work and I might be hesitant to go during very early pg because of morning sickness.

Sasha

07-24-2006, 12:39 PM

Regarding the weather, it's really the luck of the draw. Some years it's still in the 70's/80's at Christmas time, sometimes it is in the 60's (cold to us Floridians ;)). But the park will definitely be crowded, that is a peak Disney time. She will probably just be at the age where she will start to appreciate Disney. I've had plenty of people tell me not to take DD there until she is at least 2 - 2.5 years old. We took her to Sea World two weeks ago (at age 14 months), and she definitely couldn't appreciate it yet, not that we expected her too. As for napping, we let DD nap in her stroller when we were at Sea World and found a air conditioned, dark, unused exit to an exhibit.

The only perk I can think of for going to Disney with the ILs would be they could watch DD while DH and I go on some of the "fun" rides together. :p

Kingdono

08-17-2006, 12:29 PM

udsweetpea

08-17-2006, 01:38 PM

FYI my aunt works at Disney and they just discontinued the employee dinning discount due to number of visitors to the resturants being typically more then they see during peak holiday times. (this is because most vacation packages booked this summer came with the dinning package)

FYI, the discount IS available after 8pm at most of the restaurants. Also, the All Star Cafe at the Wide World of Sports offers a 50% employee discount at all times of the day and year.

PrincessTommi

08-18-2006, 09:23 AM

I am looking for great places to eat with our son. he is 3. I have some of our sit down meals all ready planned but we will be visiting from 9/18-9/23 just wanted to see if anyon has some must eat's.

FYI my aunt works at Disney and they just discontinued the employee dinning discount due to number of visitors to the resturants being typically more then they see during peak holiday times. (this is because most vacation packages booked this summer came with the dinning package)
We had a really good time at Boma, 'Ohana (loved the coconut races) and Chef Mickey's with a 3yo.

There are some time restrictions and blackout times with the normal CM dining discount. Currently though, they're blacked out during the Free Dining promotion that just started on Sunday (for packages during this period, if booked within a certain window earlier this year, the dining plan is free). The blackout runs through the promotion - sometime in September, don't have the date on hand right now though.

angelcookie2002

08-20-2006, 05:43 PM

FYI, the discount IS available after 8pm at most of the restaurants. Also, the All Star Cafe at the Wide World of Sports offers a 50% employee discount at all times of the day and year.
08-17-2006 11:29 AM

The CM discount IS blacked out right now because of the free dining promotion. And they stopped doing the after 8 thing several months ago, the discount is available at any time except for a few weeks during the black out.

myshel

08-20-2006, 06:47 PM

I am looking for great places to eat with our son. he is 3. I have some of our sit down meals all ready planned but we will be visiting from 9/18-9/23 just wanted to see if anyon has some must eat's.

FYI my aunt works at Disney and they just discontinued the employee dinning discount due to number of visitors to the resturants being typically more then they see during peak holiday times. (this is because most vacation packages booked this summer came with the dinning package)

When we went with our 11 month old this last June, these were some of our favorite (kid-friendly) places: Boma, Whispering Canyon Cafe (in Fort Wilderness Lodge), the Crystal Palace (this was a character dinner), and Biergarten. We also ate at the Yatchsman (which we LOVED but it isn't a super great place for kids) and Wolfgang Puck's in Downtown Disney (we didn't really like this place very well).

As far as counter-service type meals go, they're pretty much the same throughout the parks. We liked the ones at Epcot, Magic Kingdom, and our resort (Coronado Springs) the best.

mel_hams

08-20-2006, 07:03 PM

Dummy question here!

Can someone explain IN DETAIL how you use Fast Pass and how you use the Baby Swap thing?

myshel

08-20-2006, 07:39 PM

Dummy question here!

Can someone explain IN DETAIL how you use Fast Pass and how you use the Baby Swap thing?

Not a dumb question at all.

Fastpass

Check to see that the attraction has Fast Pass first. Most large attractions do.
Go to the Fast Pass area (these look like turnstiles and some can be hard to find) and insert your park ticket into the machine.
Your park ticket will pop back out and a Fast Pass will be issued.
Make sure that everyone in your party has a Fast Pass to enter the ride (which means everyone's park tickets are needed).
Your Fast Pass will have a time on it. This time is the very earliest you can enter a ride.
Once the time on your Fast Pass has come up, enter the attraction using the Fast Pass entrance.
Once inside that entrance, a CM will take your Fast Pass ticket.
Travel through the Fast Pass line with minimal wait and ride the attraction.
Once you have an initial Fast Pass for an attraction, you can pick up a second Fast Pass for another attraction in one of two ways: Pick another up once you have entered the time frame for your first Fast Pass OR pick up a second Fast Pass two hours after your first one was issued.

Baby Swap

Enter the line for the attraction you wish to ride with the child.
There will be a certain point, usually very early in the line where a Disney CM will stop you because of the small child you have with you.
Ask the CM for a Baby Swap Pass (these look very similar to Fast Passes).
The CM will issue you a Baby Swap Pass and will direct the parent waiting with the child to an area where you can meet up with the riding parent. This is usually the gift shop at the end of the ride or near the exit.
Once the first riding parent has completed the ride and returned, swap the baby.
The parent with the Baby Swap Pass enters the attraction with the pass at the Fast Pass gate.
Hand your Baby Swap Pass to the CM that takes the Fast Pass/Baby Swap Pass tickets.
Note that with the Baby Swap Pass, up to two additional people can ride the attraction with the second parent.

Both of these worked really well for us. A few other tips we learned from our trip:

If there are rides that you really want to ride and are afraid that the lines will be long, send one person from your party with all of the park tickets to get Fast Passes. Everyone else goes to another ride.
This is particularly effective at park opening time.
the Baby Swap doesn't need to be parents only. DH and I would ride together the first go round, leaving BIL and SIL with DS and the Baby Swap Pass. Once we got back, they rode together with the Baby Swap Pass.

I apologize if this seems pretty basic or if youfelt I was talking down to you. These are the instructions that DH gave me the first time I went to go get Fast Pass for everyone on my own. Hopefully, this helps.