Am I REALLY missing something by staying off-site? [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

Aimeemee

03-14-2006, 08:05 PM

Every trip I have taken to Disney I lurk on the boards for info & tips from all of the great "Disney veterans" out there. This board has helped me find some great places to stay!
Well after staying off-site for every trip I have taken, I can say we have had a magical time every trip. I have no complaints. However, last trip we were almost 100% convinced (with the rave reviews from my sisters family) that we wanted to stay at the Poly. But changed our minds because at the time DD (18 mos) was not sleeping well through the night, and we didn't want to risk the possibility of sleeples nights by being in a one room hotel. While we were there we visited the Poly to see wether we would like to stay there next time. I like that they allow you to visit the hotels, walk the grounds, etc. Its great to be able to see for yourself which hotels may appeal to you.
Anyway we're planning a trip for next spring and I am torn on wether or not to stay on site. The Poly was great, that would be our first choice, plus its even more appealing because of all of the room renovations. Love the convienience of being on the monorail. And the atmosphere is beautiful. However, I just dont see how we could manage being in one room. We're used to either a suite, or a condo, and like our space & privacy. Like that when kids are in bed having a living room or separate bedroom to relax in. And in the morning we like to ease in to the day, we never just wake up get ready and go. Also I'm having a really hard time justifying paying 300+ a night. Our next trip would be much shorter if we stay on site.
That said, would on-site be too cramped for our lifestyle? I was thinking maybe staying at a condo the first 6 days and maybe staying at the Poly for the last 3 just so we can have a taste of staying on-site. Any advice?

isla bonita

03-14-2006, 08:23 PM

Sounds like a plan to me.

TotoToo

03-14-2006, 08:34 PM

Great plan. If you are like us you'll find you're missing nothing but, having done it once, you'll know for sure.

kilee

03-14-2006, 08:42 PM

We've done both onsite and offsite. I too would love to stay at the POLY--but it won't happen. I am one of those people no matter which way I slice it I cannot pay $300+ per night. That is usually 1/2 of my budget for 1 weeks lodging- much less 1 night.

That being said we have stayed at the Dolphin- and found being onsite to have some benefits. BUT- I can say our trip was no more or less magical than any other. We didn't use EMH. But I did like the ease of getting back to the resort via boat from MGM and EPCOT for a mid-day swim. It was actually the first and only time we've ever done the mid-day breaks.

I think that since you'd really like to try onsite- then your plan sounds like a good one. Then you'll know if you were missing something.

emer95

03-14-2006, 09:10 PM

I'm going through the exact same thing. I'm seriously considering doing a split stay next time, with 3 days on-site and the remaining 7 days at a condo. I know I'm going to absolutely hate staying in one small room, but I would like to experience on-site at least once so I can decide for myself if it's worth being cramped and paying too much (that sounds ridiculous, doesn't it?). To be honest, the real appeal for me is the dining plan. I'd like to give it a shot.

Your plan sounds good too!

HappyLawyer

03-14-2006, 09:15 PM

offsite is awesome provided you find a good place to stay, nice hotels etc, magic is what you make of it, that being said when we go in 08 i am gonna split cuz i have been wanting to stay at the poly for ever

HaleyB

03-14-2006, 09:28 PM

Well we split a stay awhile back... we had always stayed on-site and wanted to see if maybe we just didn't know what we were missing with the extra room and all. We are onsite people. Spoiled by the ease of Disney transportation, part of the vacation for us (for DH really) is not having to deal with maps, traffic, parking, and driving. But for the right price I could be tempted... which is why I still check in on this board;)

So maybe the grass always looks greener. A split stay is a great way to test the waters.

Sylvester McBean

03-14-2006, 09:57 PM

I can't justify staying onsite since the $49.00 value deals went away. I don't think any of the WDW resorts we've ever stayed in has been worth the cost. it was fun at first seeing the resorts but we're park people, not resort people. some nights it's more relaxing to book a room and stay late instead of driving the hour home. we stayed at the Best Western in DD for a couple of nights this weekend for a $60.00 rate. it was clean, nice restaurant/bar/pool area, and on WDW property. it served our needs. WDW has some nice resorts, but I'd rather do other things with the money.

mickeyman

03-14-2006, 10:06 PM

You might want to try renting points from a Disney vacation club member. Then you could get a one bedroom suite for less than the poly.

kilee

03-14-2006, 10:53 PM

I think it really boils down to the old saying "different strokes for different folks". We all have different benefits for staying on and offsite. I don't think there is any 1 "right way". I do think it's great for everyone to be able to at least try both- so they can decide for themselves.

thelionqueen

03-14-2006, 11:15 PM

I agree, different strokes. I personally have stayed off site and would never do it again. All the perks and magic of staying onsite is truly about 60% of the magic we experience while @ WDW.

MiaSRN62

03-15-2006, 06:10 AM

We're used to either a suite, or a condo, and like our space & privacy. Like that when kids are in bed having a living room or separate bedroom to relax in. And in the morning we like to ease in to the day, we never just wake up get ready and go. Also I'm having a really hard time justifying paying 300+ a night. Our next trip would be much shorter if we stay on site.
I agree, it can be tough to stay in a small room with small kids. We always enjoyed stretching out in our Vistana villa when the kids were small. But we're also big onsite vacationers as well, so I can appreciate your longing for the Poly. We're thinking of staying there as well, only using our DVC points. I can't justify $300-$400/night either. The days of WDW offering great discounts with codes seems to be gone. We once stayed in a Contemp Tower room for $155/night with an AP discount. This was in '98 and we never saw such a good deal like that since. It was great waking up every morning and seeing the Castle outside your balcony on the 14th floor !
But I think for now, with young children, offsite may work better unless your child is a deep sleeper. Ours were----we could put them to bed and still hang out on the balcony or watch TV (volume lowered) without them waking. A full day in the parks always made them sleep like hibernating bear cubs !

spiceycat

03-15-2006, 08:42 AM

you should look into DVC points - but you can't do the Poly on points - well not and save money.

You can however easily do the VWL on points. It has boat and bus transportation to MK. It is the closest (so far) DVC resort to MK.

or you can do my choice - get 2 rooms at a value - definitely cheaper than the Polyn. you have 2 rooms so you put your child to bed in the other room.

you can look into the family suities at all Star Music. but right now WDW is pricing them MORE than 2 rooms. So for many families this is not an option.

now none of these choices include the monrail. If you want the monrail then the Polyn, Cont or GF are your only choices. I would also go with the Polyn stayed there many times it is a wonderful hotel. However I think the Cont is a better value money wise. It doesn't have the atmosphere of the Polyn, nor the pool. but it might work best for your family. If you are doing mainly the MK.

now if you want to do Epcot or the other parks - then go back to the Polyn.

I also split our stays... but I am worst than you. I plan the entire trip for offsite - then doing that stay I will go to either OKW or Pop for a day (generally EMH at the MK).

but mother is 84 and asking her to do without a room from 10:00am (the time most offsite timeshares require you to check out) until 3 or 4pm (when WDW will allow you to check in) - well she can't do it... I am allergic to the sun - so this is not an option for me either.

StephMK

03-15-2006, 11:30 AM

We have gone twice, first time off, second onsite at POR. I would pick offsite again in an instant. POR was lovely & the meal plan was the big draw. However, one room vs. the suite of rooms we had offsite couldn't compare. We can stay longer if we're offsite & we enjoyed being able to go other places. When we stayed onsite, we didn't have a car & went all Disney.

After a long day at the parks, it was so worth having 3 rooms of beds to stretch out & everyone could relax without being on top of each other. I didn't think transportation w/3 kids was that bad either & we had a heavy double stroller. When we go back, we will definitely stay offsite. I can see the appeal of a monorail resort though - that would be fun!

5boyz

03-15-2006, 11:48 AM

If you want to stay on the disney property but don't want to be cramped...there is a DoubeTree Suites on the property but not owned by Disney....you can get it on the website right now for $143.10/night!! They have their own transportation that runs pretty much like Disney and they are at Downtown Disney!!! I am working on a few things right now, my family and I hubby 4 kids are going in July. We stayed at the Cabins last year but we are going for longer this year and waaay toooo expensive. We were never there!!!

Aimeemee

03-15-2006, 01:23 PM

I agree with you Steph.....Last trip we stayed at Cypress pointe & found absolutely no difficulty with getting back and fourth to the parks. It took us 10 minutes tops to get to the parks even with traffic. I dont understand why that seems to be such an issue with those that only stay onsite. I bet we get there quicker than the disney bust transportation does. And we have the convienience of just hopping in the car....not having to wait for a bus and worrying about wether we will have a seat or not. Seems like MORE of a hassle if you have kids & a stroller, not less. The bus thing does not appeal to me in any way. Thats why if I was to stay onsite & wanted to take advantage of the transportation system I'd go for the monorail. I would probably still have a rental too.

Thanks for all of the helpful replies!

PlutoLuvr

03-15-2006, 01:46 PM

Splitting it up sounds like a good plan to me, too.

I love it all, staying on site and off! We stayed for a week at a timeshare condo right between USO and WDW, and we thoroughly enjoyed both areas.

I also love having a Publix half a mile away, a Walgreens, a Wal-Mart by staying off site. I feel a bit secluded staying on site at both USO and WDW. Plus, having a full kitchen with everything you need for a wonderful breakfast is worth a lot for us. It also affords us an opportunity to enjoy other parts of Orlando, jazz clubs downtown and restaurants/shopping outside of the parks. Sure, we can do this staying on site, but the "normal world" seems so far away when staying on site.

Just my $0.02!

Hope you have a great time...I'm sure you will no matter what you decide :)

Gillian

03-15-2006, 02:02 PM

I dont understand why that seems to be such an issue with those that only stay onsite. I bet we get there quicker than the disney bust transportation does. And we have the convienience of just hopping in the car....not having to wait for a bus and worrying about wether we will have a seat or not. Seems like MORE of a hassle if you have kids & a stroller, not less. The bus thing does not appeal to me in any way. Thats why if I was to stay onsite & wanted to take advantage of the transportation system I'd go for the monorail. I would probably still have a rental too.I don't understand it either!! It certainly can be faster to have your own car, and it's much more comfortable for the kids. I never have to stand while holding a sleepy 2 year old in my own car.

I have to believe that a lot (not all, of course) of anti-offsite people have only stayed in 1 room in a cheap motel somewhere off east 192 where they had to deal with traffic every day. It's just not a fair comparison to onsite, or to a pool home or suite hotel in a convenient location.

We have stayed at Cypress point, and Windsor Palms, plus some offsite motels, and they are all worthwhile experiences. We have also stayed onsite at AKL, the Polynesian, Fort Wilderness Cabins and Beach Club Villas, plus toured WL, CR and the GF. We like having a balcony so have not considered any moderates or values yet.

Anyway, a split stay seems like a good idea, just for you to see how you like onsite. One nice thing is easily being able to split up and meet back at the room. This can be very helpful!

spiceycat

03-15-2006, 02:06 PM

staying onsite means more than the transportation system.

first of all it is different. try it once you may see what I am talking about - or you may not. Some people get it immediately others don't.

it is the little things. the Cm are probably the best around. they definitely try to make your trip as pleasant as possible.

but at a WDW resort (yes, even the values) look around. there is something slightly different each place you look. each resort is different. plus I really love EMH and I definitely use it!!!!

the Doubletree suities is not a WDW resort so no EMH and certainly not on the monrail.

and yes you can the fireworks from other places - but nothing like you can from the Polyn, BW, BC, YC, Cont, Pop, CBR, GF

this may sound silly - but it just feels different.... I wish I could explain it better.

I also love offsite. I have so appreciated CWR for allowing Spicey to stay in this villa with me.... :smooth:

5boyz

03-15-2006, 04:06 PM

I have stayed on and off (only once each) and don't really know what the difference is!!! Now mind you I stayed at the Fort Wilderness Cabins....don't get me wrong they are nice but too much travel time!!! We had to take at least 2 of everything each way.....plus too quite there for me.....I like to feel like I am on vacation in Florida not up North (from Canada) at a cottage!!! But we are going again in July!!! By the way what is EMH? Spicy mentioned DoubleTree isn't a Disney Resort (which I stated) and can't use EMH!!! Don't know what that is??? LOL!!!! I tend to agree with Steph & Plutoluvr about the other conviences about not staying on Disney!!! I have 6 kids so not to easy to stay in a Resort on disney for me!!! LOL!!!

spiceycat

03-15-2006, 04:23 PM

get 2 value rooms....

emh - is the extra magical hours - you can stay an hour earlier in the morning and 3 hours in the evenings.

here is this site
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/earlyentry.htm#exmagic

I have a problem with the sun. EMH allows me to enjoy the parks during hours when the sun is not trying to kill me....

you must stay at a WDW resort to get this benefit. also if I was flighting (which I do only once in a long while) - I would appreciate the DME - disney magical express
http://allearsnet.com/acc/mexpress.htm

spiceycat

03-15-2006, 04:35 PM

the Polyn is the summer - garden view - $369 with taxes $411.

FW cabins in the summer - $279 with taxes $311

value resort Pop Century (the other have slightly more taxes) $99 with taxes $110.38 - 2 rooms - $221

you can see on Disney website
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/resorts/resortRates?id=PolynesianResortRatesListingPage

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/resorts/resortRates?id=FortWildernessCampgroundResortRates ListingPage

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/resorts/resortRates?id=PopCenturyResortRatesListingPage

5boyz

03-15-2006, 04:43 PM

Thanks alot Spicy if the prices were for me!!! That's great!! I am actually looking at either 2 rooms at Pop Century or Port Orleans....or the family suite at All Star Music!!!

TammyAlphabet

03-15-2006, 04:47 PM

I stayed offsite the first two visits and then onsite ever since. When I stay onsite, I am totally lost in the magic and can leave the real world behind for the short time that I am there. A TRUE vacation for me. I guess that is why I love it so much, a vacation for the body and mind and soul. :sunny:

1000th happy haunt

03-15-2006, 05:01 PM

And if you stay on-site, you don't have to lug your purchases around the park with you. You can have them delivered to your hotel free of charge.

johnnyh14

03-15-2006, 05:06 PM

i have stayed both on and off site. onsite is a better way to go. i lived in central florida so i know the area and have stayed in rented condos, good hotels and in luxury campers while on vacation for disney. the whole onsite thing is magical. the dw and dkids like it better (we all know its easier when they are happy) and in the long run we get better service and cost savings over off site. :thumbsup2

5boyz

03-15-2006, 05:07 PM

1000th a girl after my own heart......SHOPPING!!!!!!!!! Ok can anyone help me this is my first day on here and I want to know how to put all the cool stuff you guys have like where you have stayed and when and all your little fancy art works and things!!! Also how do I do my profile?

MiaSRN62

03-15-2006, 05:13 PM

And we have the convienience of just hopping in the car....not having to wait for a bus and worrying about wether we will have a seat or not. Seems like MORE of a hassle if you have kids & a stroller, not less. The bus thing does not appeal to me in any way.
While I really enjoy our offsite accomodations (Vistana), we also love staying onsite. I've stayed at the Contemporary, WL, Dixie Landings, BWV, OKW, All Stars and POP. Loved them all. The perks, as Spicey mentioned above are a great perk. I agree with her post. Try it if you have not---even for just a night or two. The EMH are great---we like the mornings ones especially. We can walk on just about all the main attractions before the real crowds come in. Makes a big difference in the day for us. Also, the package delivery is great----don't have to carry all those souveniers around all day.
As for the busses.....sometimes I feel they're faster and other times about the same as offsite driving (depending on where your offsite resort is). But there have been instances when we stayed on site and one of our kids got sick. Instead of everyone having to return to the hotel, it was nice for one parent to take the sick child back for a nap while one of us stayed with the other kids. This happened on several occasions over the years. One of us just hopped on a bus----no worries about having to drive back in the car to pick the rest of the family up. And now that my kids are older, my teen son especially, loves the independence he has of just hopping on a bus when he's done with the parks and going back to the resort for a swim----something that would have been a hassle if we had to drive him back to the resort and then drive right back to the parks again. Also, and you may not agree, but there is just something more magical (as cliche as that sounds) about being in a disney resort. There's just little touches of disney everywhere. You feel like you really don't quite leave the parks.

Now mind you I stayed at the Fort Wilderness Cabins....don't get me wrong they are nice but too much travel time!!! We had to take at least 2 of everything each way.....plus too quite there for me.....I like to feel like I am on vacation in Florida not up North (from Canada) at a cottage!!!
Maybe Ft Wilderness wasn't the resort for you ? There are many different types of resorts on property to fit all needs and preferences. Also, what do you mean you took 2 of everything each way ? Usually one bus will take you directly to a park/water park ?

So, we often split our stays between on and offsite. We find the best of both "worlds" this way :)

Aimeemee

03-15-2006, 07:05 PM

I could see where if you wanted to split up having the convienience of heading back to the hotel without worrying with a car would be great. Sometimes hubby gets burned out by the crowds and there have been times where Iwish I could just get rid of him because he's being a downer, but youre kinda stuck when you drove in together. Crowds dont ruin a thing for me, I'm ecstatic to be there even if it is crowded. So that is a nice option. Plus if my little one gets tired we can head back and let her nap while one of us could take DS to the pool. Last trip as we were leaving MK, we hopped on the monorail to check out the poly and it WAS so easy just hopping on....we were there in a blink. That was nice, and we ended up eating at the Kona Cafe & really enjoyed the meal. The CM's were very nice & our waitress was excellent. There is a lot of truth to how excellent the CM's at Disney are.

5boyz

03-15-2006, 07:26 PM

Hi Mia!!! When I said that we had to take 2 of everything I meant...we had to take a bus from our cottage( which was a good hike to the bus stop) to the bus depot and then take a bus to whatever park we were going to. We took a bus to the Ferry for MK. Plus to walk to the pool was a hike! Like you said it was just not for me!!! I like busy and hustle & bustle (my husband liked it). I think the kids would prefer to be in some place like me with lots going on!!! But it is very expensive for a family of 6 for 10 nights!!! I have tried all sorts of things!!! But we will stay one way or another cuz the kids really want to and like you I have 2 teens who liked coming and going as they pleased last year. I liked it too!!! Didn't have to drive them everywhere like we have to here!! LOL!!! Anyway I am up for any suggestions people have for my big family!!!

PrincessDadx2

03-15-2006, 07:41 PM

Some things are magical - you can't get them somewhere else. We stayed at the Contemporary Tower Magic Kingdom view because I always wanted to stay in the hotel where the monorail goes through it. Quite a unique place with a great view of the fireworks and castle from your balcony. I also thought that AKL was very cool - can't get that Savannah view anywhere else that I know of.

The other onsite places we stayed at were just hotels and we prefer our Marriott timeshare for the room, activities and cost. I have been in my timeshare in 20 minutes after illuminations including walking out of Epcot and that is faster than Disney transportation just about anywhere.

I did like the evening EMH if you kids can stay up late.

Anyone can have packages delivered to the front of the park so you do not have to carry them. We found the package delivery was slow and we usually did not get them until the next day.

For larger families the new All Star Suites might be a good choice if you want to be on site.

MiaSRN62

03-15-2006, 08:07 PM

Anyone can have packages delivered to the front of the park so you do not have to carry them. We found the package delivery was slow and we usually did not get them until the next day.
True you can get them delivered to the front of the park, but if you park hop alot like us, then you'd need to drag them to the next park you go to. We're fine with the packages being delivered the next day. If there's anything we need right away, we just keep it with us. I think the package delivery is a nice perk.
Hi Mia!!! When I said that we had to take 2 of everything I meant...we had to take a bus from our cottage( which was a good hike to the bus stop) to the bus depot and then take a bus to whatever park we were going to. We took a bus to the Ferry for MK.
Hi Aimeemee,
I wasn't aware of this with Ft Wilderness ? No other WDW resorts are like this to my knowledge. It's one bus from your resort to the park. I love hopping on the disney bus at OKW and then getting dropped off right near the turnstiles to the MK----totally bypass the TTC. Ft Wilderness is the one resort that must not do this. I think you'd def find the other resorts and their transportation much different.

5boyz

03-16-2006, 07:04 AM

Thank you Mia!!! Like I said we are going July 24-Aug 3. My 3 places I am looking into are Port Orleans (2rooms) Pop Century (2rooms) and All Star Music Family Suites. Has anyone ever got the Dining Plan before? It looks great when you do it singular, but to add my family together and then times by 10 days it is really expensive!!! Too bad you couldn't pick the number of days you wanted!!!! We are driving from Canada so we have the freedom to go out of Disney!!! We are also staying 10 days but only getting 7 day park passes (well plus 6 days water and stuff) but can do 2 different things in 1 day!!!

MiaSRN62

03-16-2006, 07:26 AM

Thank you Mia!!! Like I said we are going July 24-Aug 3. My 3 places I am looking into are Port Orleans (2rooms) Pop Century (2rooms) and All Star Music Family Suites.
I stayed at POP last year for 4 nights and found the bus service to be very good there. Have fun whichever resort you decide to stay at :cool1:
I can't comment on the Dining Plan as I haven't done that. We usually stay at a DVC resort and it hasn't been offered to us until just this spring. I may try it this summer. I would think you could find some good info on it on the WDW Dining boards ?

5boyz

03-16-2006, 07:34 AM

thank you Mia!!! I'm sure we will have a good time....we did last year!!! All these people keep telling me get the food plan, it is great!!! This is coming form people that have 2 small kids and were there for a week....I have 2 teens and 2 small kids and with all of us for 10 days it works out to $1852.46US. We would never eat that much in 10 days!!!LOL!!! Last year we barely ate we were so hot we just drank water water and more water!~!!

jeff968

03-16-2006, 07:48 AM

We did both a few years ago. Animal Kingdom Lodge for a few days and then a week at OLCC. Disney is top notch for sure and you do get the entire experience. That said, it is pricey and you lose all that room. i like your combo idea and hopefully you have nive weather and don't have to spend much time in the room. You know, Disney has some suites as well but they cost as much for one night as what you can find outside for an entire week!! We always go offsite now. the Marriotts and Hiltons are great and they have plenty of room. Good luck

MiaSRN62

03-16-2006, 08:08 AM

I have 2 teens and 2 small kids and with all of us for 10 days it works out to $1852.46US. We would never eat that much in 10 days!!!LOL!!! Last year we barely ate we were so hot we just drank water water and more water!~!!
I can agree with this. We eat light when we're in WDW too. In fact, my 2 dd's and I usually share meals because we just can't eat a full meal at one seating, so not sure it would be worth it for us either.

tripplanner2

03-16-2006, 03:20 PM

you should look into DVC points - but you can't do the Poly on points - well not and save money.

You can however easily do the VWL on points. It has boat and bus transportation to MK. It is the closest (so far) DVC resort to MK.

or you can do my choice - get 2 rooms at a value - definitely cheaper than the Polyn. you have 2 rooms so you put your child to bed in the other room.

you can look into the family suities at all Star Music. but right now WDW is pricing them MORE than 2 rooms. So for many families this is not an option.

now none of these choices include the monrail. If you want the monrail then the Polyn, Cont or GF are your only choices. I would also go with the Polyn stayed there many times it is a wonderful hotel. However I think the Cont is a better value money wise. It doesn't have the atmosphere of the Polyn, nor the pool. but it might work best for your family. If you are doing mainly the MK.

now if you want to do Epcot or the other parks - then go back to the Polyn.

I also split our stays... but I am worst than you. I plan the entire trip for offsite - then doing that stay I will go to either OKW or Pop for a day (generally EMH at the MK).

but mother is 84 and asking her to do without a room from 10:00am (the time most offsite timeshares require you to check out) until 3 or 4pm (when WDW will allow you to check in) - well she can't do it...I am allergic to the sun - so this is not an option for me either.

Are you really allergic to the sun or just the Florida heat? My doctors told me this years ago and I couldn't believe it. I have never heard of anyone else having this problem. My husband thought I was just making it up. I did take pictures of the horrible purple bloches on my legs from my trip to Cancun. :sunny:

spiceycat

03-16-2006, 05:55 PM

to the sun.

when I was in high school I broke out in rash - my doctor say it was allergic to the sun - so he wrote me an excuse - well the pe teacher throw it away and make me sit out on in the sun again - this time it was worst - I pass out.

I don't know what my doctor say to this teacher - but I was never to forced to stay out in the sun again.

I couldn't even consider Florida until sun screen.....one of the best inventions!!!!

but I still must avoid the sun from 10:00 to 4pm. I am not alot of fun be with during those times. I can go to indoor malls - but I have to make sure I am not outside any longer than 20 minutes...

off season the sun is not so bad - but I won't take chances.... once you have that particular rash plus the awful stomach cramps that goes with it - you would avoid it too.....

in offseason it is generally 11:00 to 3:00pm.

it is the sun because if I wear long shelves and pants the sun does hurt - but the heat and humdity are worst.....I also must take a hat and umbellra..... silly right....

tripplanner2

03-16-2006, 09:38 PM

I was in high school too. I had used a tanning salon for the first time and had a rash all over my entire body. It itched and burned to touch it. It was really terrible. Ever since, I get a rash whenever I have exposure to the sun. Same as you, as long as I use sun block and I am okay. I get it bad on my face around my eyes so I ALWAYS have sunglasses on. I can't believe that I found someone else with the same problem.

Have a great trip this summer, even with the sun! :wave:

davidmj

03-17-2006, 12:29 AM

good plan i think that is very wise!!

disneysteve

03-17-2006, 02:59 PM

I was thinking maybe staying at a condo the first 6 days and maybe staying at the Poly for the last 3 just so we can have a taste of staying on-site. Any advice?
I would make the on-site stay the first 3 days, not the last 3. That way, you have the following 6 days to relax in the more spacious offsite accomodations rather than ending the trip in the cramped room.

Onsite has no appeal whatsoever to me. I'm with you as far as having the space, the seperate rooms, being able to put my daughter to bed in her room then DW and I relaxing on the sofa, having a full-size fridge in the kitchen, etc. I wouldn't stay onsite even if the price was the same as the offsite place.

disneysteve

03-17-2006, 03:02 PM

And if you stay on-site, you don't have to lug your purchases around the park with you. You can have them delivered to your hotel free of charge.
You don't have to lug them around if you stay offsite. You have them sent to the front gate and pick them up on your way out.

disneysteve

03-17-2006, 03:05 PM

there is a DoubeTree Suites on the property but not owned by Disney....you can get it on the website right now for $143.10/night!!
But in comparison, I can get a 2-bed, 2-bath condo offsite for $40/nite. So I would spend less for a week than I would for 2 nites at the DoubleTree.

C.Ann

03-17-2006, 03:35 PM

I'm with you as far as having the space, the seperate rooms, being able to put my daughter to bed in her room then DW and I relaxing on the sofa, having a full-size fridge in the kitchen, etc. I wouldn't stay onsite even if the price was the same as the offsite place.
---------------------------

I have to agree with this.. Going solo - or just 2 people - is one thing, but I'd never be comfortable with 2 adults and 2 children in one room.. That's just waaaay too cramped for me..

I stayed onsite alone and it was nice - but certainly no more magical than when I didn't stay onsite.. If there "is" such a thing as "magic" in the hotels (which I truly don't believe there is - my "magic" comes from the parks) it would defintely be wiped away with the inconvenience of spending that length of time in one tiny room..

Still - if you'd like to try it for one portion of your trip, go for it! The point is to go and have a good time - why not try it out both ways and see for yourself? :)

5boyz

03-17-2006, 03:40 PM

Hey disneysteve!!!! where are these off site 2 bed 2 bath condos for $40/night. I am going with my family of 6 in July!!! I would love to know about them!!!! Thanks!!!

tripplanner2

03-17-2006, 07:35 PM

I am also curious. I have been looking at some of the homes and different options but they seem like the same price as staying onsite. I would also have to rent a car and pay for gas so there is really no savings. But, for $40 per night :scratchin thats another story.

spiceycat

03-17-2006, 07:58 PM

there was a time with skyauction you could get 1-bedroom and occasionally a 2-bedroom for 211....

$195+15+1 ($1 bid).

I love it - but right now RCI is having to defend itself in court. If they win - I think these things will be back - if they lost - then I am not sure.

some people say it won't change - others think it will...

RCI is being sued over renting so called surplus to non-members - When it was not in some conditions surplus at all.

spiceycat

03-17-2006, 08:02 PM

I think when you travel in offseason and send an email to these owners - sometimes the owners of the condo or homes will actually lower their price to attract your business.... :thumbsup2

NJOYURLIFE

03-17-2006, 08:24 PM

We tend to split up sometimes and the onsite transportation is great for that. As a family of 5, the more room the better, so staying at one of the DVC villas onsite is a must for us. We also take advantage of the extra hours and package delivery. Even without these perks, staying onsite is just magical for us. I am not sure if it would be as magical if we were not staying in a villa. I think the most important part of staying onsite vs. offsite is to do what you can afford.

disneysteve

03-18-2006, 09:31 AM

Hey disneysteve!!!! where are these off site 2 bed 2 bath condos for $40/night. I am going with my family of 6 in July!!! I would love to know about them!!!! Thanks!!!
The last 2 trips (Nov. '04 and '05) we booked through SkyAuction. $260 for the week which is just over $37/nite. Will those deals continue to exist? I don't know. I guess it depends on that case spiceycat mentioned.

But even without SkyAuction, you can find things through VRBO.com or other sites. Maybe not $37/nite, but certainly for under $75/nite, you can book a 2 or 3-bed condo which puts you in the same price range (or less) than the Disney Values and there is no comparison between the accomodations. How can you compare one room at All-Star to 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, full kitchen, balcony, living room/dining room, washer/dryer, stereo, VCR and more?

Can you tell I just don't get the onsite "magic" thing?

MiaSRN62

03-18-2006, 10:08 AM

How can you compare one room at All-Star to 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, full kitchen, balcony, living room/dining room, washer/dryer, stereo, VCR and more?
It's the experience/ambience of staying onsite that some just don't see. Comparing some offsite 2 bedroom villa to a disney resort is like comparing apples and oranges (particularily because there are good villas and then there are rundown villas offsite).
Steve, you don't get the disney magic thing, but that's totally alright (and I don't need to tell you that ;) ). I think one either gets "it" or they don't. Some people just don't like to drive cars at all while on vacation. Disney transportation is great for those folks. It's nice that Orlando has something to offer everyone :thumbsup2 Everyone's perceptions and experiences will be different. And, for the record, we do own offsite (at Vistana) so I can speak from both sides of the coin. Sure our Vistana timeshare is very nice....but I sort of pang to be onsite every once in awhile and it's why we bought DVC. We have almost always split our stays between on and offsite and still plan to.

snappy

03-18-2006, 10:14 AM

Weekends take so many more DVC points, that is what we have done too.
Plus, if you can stand the pain of moving, you get to try out different Orlando hotels.

I got a great Travlezoo deal on the Omni last year. That lazy river, zero entry pool section, and big slide was awesome. We could have easily skipped going to the park on the days we stayed there and had a blast.

disneysteve

03-18-2006, 10:21 AM

It's the experience/ambience of staying onsite that some just don't see. Comparing some offsite 2 bedroom villa to a disney resort is like comparing apples and oranges (particularily because there are good villas and then there are rundown villas offsite).
Steve, you don't get the disney magic thing, but that's totally alright (and I don't need to tell you that ;) ). I think one either gets "it" or they don't.
Agreed. I've stayed onsite 8 times in various accomodations from Fort Wilderness to the Contemporary. I've loved every trip. But at this stage in our lives, we find more than enough "magic" by taking a ride over to the Poly one morning and renting speed boats for an hour or having dinner at Boma one evening or browsing the shops on the Contemporary concourse. We don't feel we need to be staying there to experience the magic of the Disney resorts.

To us, the magic is being able to spend a week together each year at Disney in spacious, comfortable accomodations.

Local_Girl

03-18-2006, 02:51 PM

As I'm planning each trip, I think "Perhaps we should stay onsite this time...". Then the reality sets in and I realize that we can go for 2 full weeks offsite in a nice, spacious condo for about the same price as 2 nights in a deluxe concierge room, or perhaps 5 nights at a moderate resort. It's a no brainer for us, as we get all the magic we want/need in our daily visits to the parks and resorts. We enjoy longer trips, DH prefers to drive vs. taking a bus anyway, and we like to have a few simple (homemade) meals occasionally instead of eating out every day for 2 weeks. It's also nice to be able to do some laundry during a trip of that length.

I'm glad that there is a variety of accomodations, offsite and onsite. I'm also glad that there are many who will only stay onsite...more choices/options for us! ;)

5boyz

03-18-2006, 03:02 PM

Thanks disneysteve!!!! I will look into the website you gave me!!!! I am not that fussy about staying on or off!!! The only reason I am looking to stay on is because my 15 &16 years old sons can come and go pretty freely. Our friends are staying at POR and my boys want to stay there with them!!! But they only have 4 in their family.....we have 6!!! So rooms double!!!!

disneysteve

03-18-2006, 03:20 PM

The only reason I am looking to stay on is because my 15 &16 years old sons can come and go pretty freely.
I think this is an excellent reason to stay onsite. As much as I enjoy and prefer staying offsite, when DD is a little older, if she wants to bring along a friend, I would consider onsite so that they can get around and back to the room on their own. Heck, that's what my best friend and I used to do every year when I went with him and his parents.

5boyz

03-18-2006, 03:29 PM

Last year we went with the same friends we are going with this year and they have a 15 yr old too so it was great!!! They met up and did whatever!!!We would meet up every so often and it worked out for all as I have a 9 yr ds and year old dd too!!! My dh would rather stay on but doesn't care as long as we go!!! He liked the cabins....he likes quiet, I like thing happen' and hoppin'!!! LOL!! That was my one stipulation if we went......I AM NOT STAYING AT THE CABIN!!!!! I want to stay off as we are going for 10 days and gettting 7 day water plus (even though that adds 6 more days) but anyway I LOVE to shop at the outlets and see what is going on outside Disney!!!! But for the boys and daddy I will stay on!!!!

dkort

04-08-2006, 10:56 PM

I saw this topic and had to give my opinion. I have stayed on and off. I have absolutely no desire whatsoever to stay on ever again and neither does my young daughter or husband.

Here's the popular reasons why people stay in Disney hotels:
1. I can go back to my hotel to take a break.
This cracks me up. It's not like Anaheim where you really can just walk out of the rapids ride at Ca Adventure, walk into the Grand Californian through a turnstyle, press an elevator button and head up to your room. To get back to any Dis hotel in Orlando, you have to definitely either take the monorail, a boat, a bus or be in for a decently long walk. No advantage with this one that I can see. By the time you're done doing that, you can get in your car, head back to your hotel and then return in the evening. No advantage here.
2. I want to feel like I'm really at Disney.
Another funny one. I guess these people need hotel staff telling them to "have a magical day" for them to feel like they're in Disney.
3. The Disney hotels are all kid friendly.
You're in Orlando, the number one family travel destination in the US. Find me a hotel that is NOT kid friendly.
4. I can get to the parks earlier than everyone else.
True, but you can't do this every day for every park. The first time I heard this I thought it was a great idea. I figured I could just get up early, get to any park of my choice and go in before everyone else. Wrong! Certain parks have early entrance only on certain days, meaning that if it's Tuesday, it might be the day for Epcot and nothing else.
My solution? I decide what park I want to go to and check to make sure that its not an early entrance day. I then get there when it opens. I have never had a problem getting on my rides of choice.
5. I can have my souveniers sent back to my hotel.
What in the world are you people buying?
6. The hotel concierge at Disney can make my reservations for character dining.
Hello? 90 days prior to any visit, call 407-WDISNEY and ask for disney dining. Make your own reservations.
7. Disney offers the magic express and will take me directly to my hotel from the airport for free. This way I don't have to hassel with my bags and getting a cab or renting a car.
What in the world is this all about? For the price that Disney charges for their hotels versus a hotel outside of the "world", you can hire a limo service to do all of the above for you, and you don't have to get onto a bus.
8. Nobody does it like Disney.
What is it that Disney does when it comes to hotels? I've stayed at the GF and Poly and other Disney properties before I figured out all of the above. The room I was placed in was sooooo small compared to 4 star hotels in the Orlando area, yet the prices are so outrageous. Plus, there are absolutely no king beds at the Poly, yet during high season, prices run $400 plus per night!
All of the major chains offer extras like points, free stays, free breakfasts, manager's receptions, etc. When you compare, dollar for dollar what you get at a Disney hotel even with all of the so-called "extras" from Disney, you are literally giving your money away staying on property. And for what? Souvenier shipping? Early entrance?

The saddest commentary is when I read so many stories of families literally saving up their money for a Disney vacation. Rather than stay off property, they have this compelling need to want to experience the Disney vibe. Not being able to afford the Grand Floridian or other comparable property, these families will end up at one of the bargain resorts like the All Star Pop or Music, hotels that are really glorified motels. Sadly enough, a little research would get these type of families into a solid 3 star outside of the world for the price they paid for a motel experience. This would probably also give them free breakfast or snacks or something else for their hard earned money.

Remember what I said in the beginning. This is simply MY opinion.

MiaSRN62

04-08-2006, 11:40 PM

dkort says : I can go back to my hotel to take a break. This cracks me up. It's not like Anaheim where you really can just walk out of the rapids ride at Ca Adventure, walk into the Grand Californian through a turnstyle, press an elevator button and head up to your room. To get back to any Dis hotel in Orlando, you have to definitely either take the monorail, a boat, a bus or be in for a decently long walk. No advantage with this one that I can see.
The big advantage for us (and I'm thinking many others as well), is that you can split up. If one child is sick, either mom or dad can hop on a bus and go back to the hotel with them. If you have a teen, they can hop on a bus and go back to the hotel if they choose. WDW transportation gives added freedom in that the whole family doesn't have to load into the car to drive another family member back to the hotel and then return later and have to park all over again. Now that I have a teen, this is an added luxury. I can just tell my son to go do some of his own thing if he chooses. We traveled a couple years with my ailing mil who was undergoing chemo and radiation treatments. She tired very easily and she could very easily hop on a disney bus after 1-2 hours in the park without one of us having to drive her back to the resort and then come all the way back to the park again. It made her feel much more independent and like she didn't have to bother us with driving her around when she didn't feel well (not that we would feel this way). So I can think of several reasons disney transportation can be a plus.

I can get to the parks earlier than everyone else. True, but you can't do this every day for every park. I decide what park I want to go to and check to make sure that its not an early entrance day. I then get there when it opens. I have never had a problem getting on my rides of choice.

You are very fortunate if you've never experienced some of disney's 60-90+ wait times for popular rides. I don't know how you do it, because in dozens & dozens of visits over the last 10 years, we've seen some killer lines. And we go during Oct, Nov, July and Aug most frequently. Witnessed 2-3 hour waits for Soarin' last Aug. Having those early entry (and after park closing access on some days) has proven invaluable to our family. We can get through 4-5 rides in that first hour most times. The crowds really build after 10-11 am. We pick the early park entry and then "hop" to another park around 11 am when it starts to get crowded. Works great---and we stay both on and offsite so we notice a difference.

dkort says : 5. I can have my souveniers sent back to my hotel. What in the world are you people buying?

LOL.....well, let's see.....we've purchased art work, water globes, clocks, clothing, toys, disney electric monorail train.....I could go on with things we've purchased for ourselves and others over the years and found this service to be wonderful. It's a pain to cart those things around when you're going on rides and attractions. I know you can have them shipped to the front of the park, but that doesn't work when one "hops". So package delivery may not be a perk for everyone, but we love it.

I could go on a bit about what you stated dkort, but you are most definitely entitled to your opinion----I respect that. You sound a little anti-disney though ? Of course this is your opinion and is fine. You at least sound equally opposite of what you are putting down the onsite experience for. I just think there are different people who enjoy different types of vacation experiences. It's terrific that Orlando can please just about everyone. I don't think onsite is the only way to go any more than I feel offsite is. It's why we split our vacations and do both onsite and offsite. For us, it's the best of both worlds. Def a different experience with each for us.
Everyone needs to learn what works best for them and go with that.

2nd childhood

04-09-2006, 12:07 AM

Last year was our first time to stay at a Disney property. For us the best thing was that after driving nearly 14 hours to get there my husband just parked the van and he never had to see it again until the end of our trip. He said last year that for a week long stay we'll never stay off site again. Shorter trips or when we take in Seaworld or Universal we'll of course stay off site.

Maistre Gracey

04-09-2006, 02:49 AM

1. I can go back to my hotel to take a break.
This cracks me up. It's not like Anaheim where you really can just walk out of the rapids ride at Ca Adventure, walk into the Grand Californian through a turnstyle, press an elevator button and head up to your room. To get back to any Dis hotel in Orlando, you have to definitely either take the monorail, a boat, a bus or be in for a decently long walk. No advantage with this one that I can see. By the time you're done doing that, you can get in your car, head back to your hotel and then return in the evening. No advantage here.
Yes, there is an advantage. The amount of advantage depends on the exact resort, and the exact status of the transportation cycle (boat or mono just left or arrived ect…)
Not sure how anyone couldn’t see an advantage when traveling from MK to The Contemporary, or Epcot to Beach Club.

2. I want to feel like I'm really at Disney.
Another funny one. I guess these people need hotel staff telling them to "have a magical day" for them to feel like they're in Disney.
I fail to see why you deem this as funny. Many of us thoroughly enjoy the whole “Magical Day” thing. Only speaking for myself, but it gets me in the Disney spirit.
You certainly have the right to think such things are silly, and I’m sorry you don’t understand the whole “Magic” thing.
And you just don’t get that Magical theming at a non Disney resort.

3. The Disney hotels are all kid friendly.
You're in Orlando, the number one family travel destination in the US. Find me a hotel that is NOT kid friendly.
Are you serious? Do you really think your local Days Inn is as kid friendly as a Disney Resort?
Many local hotels don’t give a hoot about the paying adult, let alone the kid running around the lobby.

4. I can get to the parks earlier than everyone else.
True, but you can't do this every day for every park. The first time I heard this I thought it was a great idea. I figured I could just get up early, get to any park of my choice and go in before everyone else. Wrong! Certain parks have early entrance only on certain days, meaning that if it's Tuesday, it might be the day for Epcot and nothing else.
My solution? I decide what park I want to go to and check to make sure that its not an early entrance day. I then get there when it opens. I have never had a problem getting on my rides of choice.
Hmmm…. A small amount of homework would have revealed that only one park opens early.

5. I can have my souveniers sent back to my hotel.
What in the world are you people buying?
This is a great feature no matter which way you slice it. Even if you purchase something small, who wants to carry it around? Even if you have it sent to the entrance, you still have to lug it around part of the way.

6. The hotel concierge at Disney can make my reservations for character dining.
Hello? 90 days prior to any visit, call 407-WDISNEY and ask for disney dining. Make your own reservations.
I believe Disney guests have a 180 (plus 10) day booking window, but I could be mistaken on that.

7. Disney offers the magic express and will take me directly to my hotel from the airport for free. This way I don't have to hassel with my bags and getting a cab or renting a car.
What in the world is this all about? For the price that Disney charges for their hotels versus a hotel outside of the "world", you can hire a limo service to do all of the above for you, and you don't have to get onto a bus.
You see, it’s not about the “money”. That’s where you are making your mistake. It’s about the feeling we get being immersed in Disney 24/7.

8. Nobody does it like Disney.
What is it that Disney does when it comes to hotels? I've stayed at the GF and Poly and other Disney properties before I figured out all of the above. The room I was placed in was sooooo small compared to 4 star hotels in the Orlando area, yet the prices are so outrageous. Plus, there are absolutely no king beds at the Poly, yet during high season, prices run $400 plus per night!
All of the major chains offer extras like points, free stays, free breakfasts, manager's receptions, etc. When you compare, dollar for dollar what you get at a Disney hotel even with all of the so-called "extras" from Disney, you are literally giving your money away staying on property. And for what? Souvenier shipping? Early entrance?
I would dare to say that very, very few people stay at more hotels than I do.
With that said, The Poly has some of the largest rooms I have seen.

The saddest commentary is when I read so many stories of families literally saving up their money for a Disney vacation. Rather than stay off property, they have this compelling need to want to experience the Disney vibe. Not being able to afford the Grand Floridian or other comparable property, these families will end up at one of the bargain resorts like the All Star Pop or Music, hotels that are really glorified motels. Sadly enough, a little research would get these type of families into a solid 3 star outside of the world for the price they paid for a motel experience. This would probably also give them free breakfast or snacks or something else for their hard earned money.
Well, did you ever think these families wanted the on site experience?
Again, only speaking for myself, but I would pay to stay at Pop before I would stay off site for free.

Remember what I said in the beginning. This is simply MY opinion.
And this is only my opinion. :smokin:

MG

johnnyh14

04-09-2006, 06:47 AM

disneysteve

04-09-2006, 06:53 AM

He is probably a travel agent who gets a bigger commission from outside hotels.

My family loves staying onsite and I am happy to spend more if it acually costs more for staying inside.

Who wants the hassle of driving or taking a bus from an outside property when you can enjoy disney transportation. :thumbsup2
I have no idea if he is a travel agent, but I don't think anything he said is incorrect - for those who share his view.

We also PREFER staying offsite. Unlike Maistre Gracey, I would rather pay to stay offsite than stay at a Disney Value for free. We all look for different things when we travel. For us, the amenities offsite far outweigh the ones onsite. Neither way is right or wrong across the board. But offsite is what is right for me and my family.

sweet maxine

04-09-2006, 07:10 AM

I agree about staying offsite.

I've been enough times to know now that unless I'm getting a super great deal on AP rates, I'm more than happy to stay somewhere else. I enjoy the Disney resorts, and I think the transportation system is nice, but I've also found that it's better for me (and quicker usually) to drive myself. I have absolutely no qualms about that at all. I enjoy having the choice to leave the park and eat offsite if I so choose, then rest in my larger size accommodations for the afternoon before I return. My family agrees, and we've even stayed offsite with teenagers (and their friends), and it's absolutely doable.

Ask me if I'd rather have a night at the Poly or a week in a 1000 sq. ft. condo (for approx. the same price), and I'll take the condo every time. Yes, the Poly is a great place, but I'm happy just having the wonderful opportunity to even *be* in Orlando. I could be sitting at home...

HappyLawyer

04-09-2006, 07:54 AM

it is something to staying in a place that has a home like atmosphere, at orange lake and any other place that has the villa or condos, there are bedrooms for escape, more room, it's like home

Mo-Yo

04-09-2006, 08:25 AM

It's crazy how defensive people get about where they stay on vacation, isn't it?

I agree with the avid on-siters - Disney themeing and service is one of a kind. It is so neat to stay on-site and feel that you are there the whole time.

That said, phrases like off-siters "don't get it" are more than a bit judgemental.

There is nothing to get. Some people stay onsite and love it and feel it's worth the cost...others try it and look elsewhere...others don't try it. People should be able to plan thier vacations without feeling like a choice to stay elsewhere is ill-informed or "Anti-disney."

We can't afford the Poly or the Contemporary. If we could, I don't think I could still bite the bullet and drop more than $300 a night. I like Disney Deluxe hotels a lot. We've eaten there, toured there, etc. But in spite of thier obvious charm, services and conveniences, I would rather dorp that kind of cabbage on a trip to Europe or a tropical all-inclusive.

That is totally my opinion. For some, Disney Deluxe is the pinacle of vacationing. That is OKAY.

We have stayed in the cabins and POR...both are great. IN the cabins we loved the peace and the space. AT POR, we loved the resort facilities. But really...what we gained in themeing and special treats (like the boat ride and a Mickey wake up call) we paid dearly for in space and dollars.

We've used EMH. The mornings are great, but as time goes on the parks get busy. EMH evening are madhouses IMO. We eventually decided that we got just as much done going early on a non-EMH day than on EMH, and we've NEVER waited longer than 30 mins. for a big-ticket ride.

So my opinion (and it is that, mine)..be it (God-forbid) anti-Disney or ill-informed...is that we will try a pool home for my family of 5 next year.
I understand the ride from Windsor Hills is shorter than the bus ride from many of the onsite hotels.
I think it will be nice not to have to walk to the pool, and to be able to relax with a cocktail there at the end of the day.
We have no qualms about missing EMH.
We don't buy many packages.
We plan on visiting a few onsite hotels and restaurants...and a few nice offsite ones.
We will not be woken by Mickey...but we'll see him in the parks.
We'll stretch out at night and play some board games or playstation together.
I'll get up and have a coffee by the pool before anyone else is awake.

We'll save some money...about $50-$75 a night over what we would have paid at a moderate or a cabin.

I'll let you know how it goes...but I'll be sure, if I love it, to let you know it worked for me...but that doesn't mean it will work for you.

Play nice, would ya?

tripplanner2

04-09-2006, 01:14 PM

Last year was our first family trip and we stayed at POR with an AP discount. I was happy but my husband wants more space. Where are you guys staying offsite that is less expensive than $99 per night less the expense of a car rental? I priced out a minivan and for 2 weeks we are looking at several hundrend dollars. I have been looking for alternatives to the onsite locations but after adding in the car rental we are really coming out even. :wave2:

disneysteve

04-09-2006, 01:22 PM

Where are you guys staying offsite that is less expensive than $99 per night less the expense of a car rental?
No matter where we stay, onsite or offsite, we always have a car. We hate depending on Disney transportation. So much quicker and more efficient to drive ourselves, so a car isn't a deciding factor.

As for where we stay, we've stayed in offsite hotels/motels, rented condos, pool homes and time shares. The cheapest would be about $37/nite through SkyAuction. Also, when we've rented houses and condos, we've been splitting the cost with other family, so, for example, a 3-bedroom condo cost $90/nite but our share was $45/nite. Or $100/nite for a house and our share was $50/nite.

Mo-Yo

04-09-2006, 01:42 PM

Also, there are condos and townhomes close by for $70 and up.

I know what you mean about the car rental...it can add up. We'll probably just rent a midsize if we fly. If we drive, it won't be an issue. We are still weighing options.

sweet maxine

04-09-2006, 01:51 PM

Just wanted to add that with a family of 5 or more, it's so much better with the extra room at the end of the day. It's hard to imagine going back to a small hotel room, sitting on the beds, and trying not to run into each other while taking turns with the bathroom. With a full kitchen and table and chairs it's nice to be able to put on some cheese dip and chips and bring out the cards or dominoes. It's also great to be able to toss those dirty clothes in the washer (right there in the condo!), then sit down on the couch to watch a movie.

C.Ann

04-09-2006, 02:22 PM