Help! Do We Fly Or Drive From CT?

[minivanmomof2]

Our Disney vacation(FIRST) isn't until next summer so we're just beginning to get ideas,etc. We DO know that we want to spend 6-7 nights at The HIFS(KidSuite). We just assumed we would fly down and rent a car for a week but DH brought up a good point....maybe driving down(about 20 hr drive?) and staying on for another week(maybe further north at a less $$ hotel). We have a 2000 Grand Caravan so that would work and I told DH we would HAVE(LOL) to invest in an entertainment console to keep our sons preoccupied(they will be 5 1/2 and 9 at the time of our vac). Between airfare and car rental we would be saving approx. $1500(pretty significant). Has anyone driven down from CT and where did you stay along the way? My only concern is the packing/unpacking,etc and that it may get a bit crazy.......
On the other hand it would be nice to WDW first and get that out of the way and slow the pace down a bit by maybe staying someplace other than WDW?! I just don't want to be burned out very quickly.... and I think maybe by staying on for several days after WDW it would allow us to wind down? HELPPPPPPPPP.........I'm SO confused!
;) ;)

[Humpbacks1962]

I fly...

I have heard some people say that they make the trip in 15 - 18 hrs, driving non-stop.

I'd have to take several hours to rest after that one, anticipating going through same- ol- same-ol returning.

If I could not fly, I'd take the train. But it takes about as long, is more expensive and uncomfortable than just flying in the morning and riding Kali Water Rapids at noon.

Wanda

[Wish Upon A Star]

My DH won't even think of making the drive . . .we have a DD 12 and DS 8 1/2 and I cannot imagine them being in a car for that length of time (are we there yet?) As much as I hate to fly, its nice being there in about 3 hours rather than being in a car for 19 or 20. My DH has no patience with traffic and drivers who don't pay attention . . .he feels we are much safer flying.

Flying out of Bradley for our July trip is costing us $712 for the 4 of us.

Good luck with whatever you decide :D

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by Wish Upon A Star
My DH won't even think of making the drive . . .we have a DD 12 and DS 8 1/2 and I cannot imagine them being in a car for that length of time (are we there yet?) As much as I hate to fly, its nice being there in about 3 hours rather than being in a car for 19 or 20. My DH has no patience with traffic and drivers who don't pay attention . . .he feels we are much safer flying.

Flying out of Bradley for our July trip is costing us $712 for the 4 of us.

Good luck with whatever you decide :D
Hiya neighbor!
We're a stone's throw away in Meriden.
I think after giving this some more thought we'll probably end up flying too.........we have between now and next July to watch the airfare,etc......... Where are you staying and for how long are you going if I may ask?
Naomi :)

[Humpbacks1962]

Well, I was just checking out Amtrak's site and it costs far less than I thought to bring your car along to Florida.

The total expense almost compares to travel by air, and they are running some 30% off specials now that may tickle the fancy of anyone who needs a car down there, does not want to rent, does not want to fly and thinks the drive is overwhelming. Kids younger than 15 or 16 pay half price too.

But in my case, since the cost is almost comparable, I fly. Having a Delta Skymiles AMEX cards encourages has given me plenty of points for two free tickets to use next year, so considering a card that earns you air miles may be a good alternative too.



Wanda

[aero99]

I was born and raised in CT. I now live in VA. The drive to see my family is ~10 hours if DC/Balitmore isn't too bad. All I can say is FLY!!!! My fiancee has done the trip 2 times with me now and he can't stand it!! The only reason he joined me the second and third times was because we had the dogs with us and I will not put them on an airplane. Even if you stop in VA or NC, you will be burned out and that is definitely not the way to arrive at WDW. If you do decide to drive, avoid the NJ turnpike and DC and Balitmore (if possible).

Good Luck!
Melissa

ps. I was born in Meriden. All my grandparents lived and died there. My family moved to Madison when I went into 1st grade.

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by aero99
I was born and raised in CT. I now live in VA. The drive to see my family is ~10 hours if DC/Balitmore isn't too bad. All I can say is FLY!!!! My fiancee has done the trip 2 times with me now and he can't stand it!! The only reason he joined me the second and third times was because we had the dogs with us and I will not put them on an airplane. Even if you stop in VA or NC, you will be burned out and that is definitely not the way to arrive at WDW. If you do decide to drive, avoid the NJ turnpike and DC and Balitmore (if possible).

Good Luck!
Melissa

ps. I was born in Meriden. All my grandparents lived and died there. My family moved to Madison when I went into 1st grade.
Meriden, huh? It's a small world after all.......LOL......couldn't resist!
Honestly, at this stage of the game, I'm leaning towards flying and staying at the HIFS for 6-7 nights. I just think the drive would be miserable and I would probably kick myself midway.
Plus, I don't think I could leave my "baby"(our dog aka our 4-legged daughter) for two weeks. I'd miss her terribly. One week will be hard enough!
Thanks for your input. I'm taking EVERYTHING into consideration!

[PennConn]

Great to see so many Connecticut natives here (I was born in Hartford and raised in Windsor and Farmington)

In September I will be driving from Philadelphia for the fourth time ...... a 16 hour trip .... I just like the convenience of being able to set my own time and schedule, plus as a AAA member it does not cost much at all for a hotel room ....

(Plus it's not all like driving down with my family in 1976, back before I-95 was finished being built in NC and SC)

Here are my hints for those driving from CT to FL:

1). Use I-691, I-84, I-684, the Tappan Zee Bridge, and the Garden State Parkway to get around New York City, vs. I-91, I-95, and the Geo Washington Bridge

2). ALWAYS take the beltways from I-95 around major cities:

I-895 around Baltimore (a best kept secret, much shorter and less crowded than the more popular I-695)

I-495 around Washington DC

I-295 around Richmond

I-295 around Jacksonville

3). I-95 Exit 164 in Florence, SC is a goldmine of reasonably priced hotels, and a great stopover point .... check it out! (I usually leave around 8 AM from Philadelphia and get to Florence around 6 PM or so, you would have to add 3 or 4 hours from Hartford)

Hope this helps!

[PennConn]

***BUMP****

[momoftwins]

I would say fly. We are going in two weeks and with Southwest's Friends Fly Free special, we are paying $440 - which includes all taxes and fees for myself, DH, and our 6-yr old twins.

We are flying out of Providence.

So, for me I vote flying!

Good luck.

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by momoftwins
I would say fly. We are going in two weeks and with Southwest's Friends Fly Free special, we are paying $440 - which includes all taxes and fees for myself, DH, and our 6-yr old twins.

We are flying out of Providence.

So, for me I vote flying!

Good luck.
WOW that is a phenominal deal. Will have to check that out.
Thanks so much!

[lisa000]

Hi,
We are leaving on April 12 and we are driving from MA. This will be our 5th time driving to FL. Usually we take turns driving and go strait thru in about 24 hours. Maybe will will stop this time, we will see how it goes. My 9 year old just brings her headphones and gameboy and is fine, sleeps most of the way! Coming home is fun. We always do side things (since we are in the neighborhood) like check out Daytona Beach, stop at South of the Border, Drive thru Washington DC, and one time we even stopped and walked up to the gates of the White House. It makes for a longer time to get home depending on how long the stops are, but to us those extra memories were priceless! If you don't mind the long drive, I would suggest driving because you can see so much along the way.

[barbnbrian]

No way would I drive when I can be there in less than three hrs. Last Aug. we flew SWA from Bradley for $93 per person.

This July we're flying SWA on the Friends Fly Free promo and the total for four is $454 nonstop with all taxes and fees.

Sit tight and keep watching Southwest's website. I was checking for specials daily. Something cheap will show up. Just be patient.

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by barbnbrian
No way would I drive when I can be there in less than three hrs. Last Aug. we flew SWA from Bradley for $93 per person.

This July we're flying SWA on the Friends Fly Free promo and the total for four is $454 nonstop with all taxes and fees.

Sit tight and keep watching Southwest's website. I was checking for specials daily. Something cheap will show up. Just be patient.
WOW, another SWA DEAL! Gonna bookmark that site for sure! I take it you were pleased with the airline? I've never flown with them but their rates seem very reasonable!
Thanks for your help, I appreciate it!

[Babblin'Boo]

I just went to that site and priced a "discounted" reservation with the dates I am flying in August, for exactly the same number of persons. It came up to almost $200 over.

I am flying Delta, and it pays to look at their Internat fares. They are always lower than buying even from Expedia.

If you plan to come back, you have to look at roundtrip fares and it seems like their best prices are one way trips. Then all these fees bring up the price by at least $20 - $30 over the "discounted" price. So, I am confused about this SWA deal...

[CherylA]

Another CT native here. I don't see how driving will save you $1500. I'm trying to make the fly/drive decision myself and the money really doesn't work out to be that much of a factor. Tickets out of BDL direct to MCO are no more than $200 . I'm sure your boys would probably enjoy the ride especially with a tv unit. They are a good age for the drive. If I were you I would do a more realistic figuring of your costs of fly vs drive though. Include things like gas, wear and tear on the car, fees to maintain the car before the trip, meals and hotels while on the road. When figuring flying include rental car, skycab tips, airport parking fees as well as the cost of the cheapest tickets you can find (that you would consider using). i don't think driving will save you any money, it will probably end up costing you since you will have to pay for an extra week of hotel and food but you will be getting a much longer vacation out of the deal. if you have your heart set on 2 weeks in FL then yes driving is probably the way to go but if you are just doing Disney then it probably makes sense to fly.

[ghcoughlin]

Hi!I too am a Ct native,Ansonia.You couldn't pay me to drive either.We drive to Bradley(we meet my Mom for the trip)stay over at The International Inn,$99 for 5 people,3 queen size beds and parking for 8 days.This is an unbelievable deal and a nice hotel.We fly Delta depart at 7:00 arrive 10:30 and we're at FW by noon.Our rate is $185. per person.We know we could do better but we like the times of this flight and it is NON STOP.We have driven from Vermont to Myrtle Beach for many years that is a 19 hour drive and that just about wipes us out on the return.We would stop for one night on the way back too.When you hit Jersey,NY etc it is horrible!!!!
Have a great time which ever way you go.
Heidi

[Tense]

Hi... I'm from Ct also, and we always fly. SWA out of Bradley or Providence... you can usually find great rates. We're going in 3 days, and got rt for 142.00. Our rent a car is 150.00 for 8 days. The trick is to WATCH the internet specials and car deals at least 6 months in advance of your trip. AND don't stop checking the prices because you get the lower price if it goes down. I might suggest the Vistana instead of hifs. Even if you get a 1 bedroom suite at Vistana, you'll have MUCH more room and a full kitchen. The rates through Hotelkingdom.com run 74.00 1 bedroom and around 129.00 for a 2 bedroom 2 bath. I speak from experience.once you stay there, you'll never want a regualr 'suite' or hotel room again, especially with kids! I too have driven from Long Isand to Florida BC(before children!) and the drive down is ok cause you work on adrenaline!(non stop). BUT.... OHHH coming home.. well, traffic (around DC)and the fact that you're vacation is over, well not a great combo. I'd advice flying!

[CherylA]

ghcolghlin, I live in Ansonia!!! Thats why we need so many trips to Disney :)

[DMRick]

I just went to that site and priced a "discounted" reservation with the dates I am flying in August, for exactly the same number of persons. It came up to almost $200 over.

Discounted isn't the great sale all are talking about. It's the "friends fly free". Maybe it's sold out for the days you are looking for. We are flying four for $448 from Albany, NY.
We've done the drive "to save money". We never did. By the time you pay the tolls, and the gas, and the extra days you need for vacation, and the tried dragged out feeling for the first couple of days..it's not worth it. Then all you think about on the vacation, is the long tedious drive home.
This trip was a little more last miinute and we are paying $238 for a full size car for 8 days..when we went in September and January ($78 round trip...yep, that's round trip each..less than the cost of gas), the car was just $134 and $158 for a week and one for 8 day. So I really don't think you would be saving anywhere near what you think (by the way, our room at the Allstars both visits was $54 with tax..it's $94 without at POR this trip). With great planning ahead, you can fly and save!

[Wish Upon A Star]

Quote:

Hiya neighbor!
We're a stone's throw away in Meriden.
I think after giving this some more thought we'll probably end up flying too.........we have between now and next July to watch the airfare,etc......... Where are you staying and for how long are you going if I may ask?


Hi Naomi:

Our vacations to WDW are one week . . .After this year, I'm uping the days to a 10 day vacation . . .

We have stayed at the Grand Floridian and Polynesian (1999 & 2000) This July we will be back at the Grand Floridian and then just me and DH will return in October for a 4 day 15th Wedding Anniversary vacation and we are staying at Wilderness Lodge.

Will this be your first vacation to WDW?

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by Wish Upon A Star
Quote:

Hiya neighbor!
We're a stone's throw away in Meriden.
I think after giving this some more thought we'll probably end up flying too.........we have between now and next July to watch the airfare,etc......... Where are you staying and for how long are you going if I may ask?


Hi Naomi:

Our vacations to WDW are one week . . .After this year, I'm uping the days to a 10 day vacation . . .

We have stayed at the Grand Floridian and Polynesian (1999 & 2000) This July we will be back at the Grand Floridian and then just me and DH will return in October for a 4 day 15th Wedding Anniversary vacation and we are staying at Wilderness Lodge.

Will this be your first vacation to WDW?
Both DH and I went as chiildren(a LOT has changed Iknow) ...this is our first BIG family vacation!! Have already madeup our minds to stay at HIFS(will shop around for the best rate when it gets closer)......Had considered extending thr trip by perhaps driving down and stopping off on the return trip but I think an 8 day/7 night stay at HIFS(with a 5 day Park Hopper PLus) will be sufficient. Don't wet to get totally burned out. Very impressed with the rates people have mentioned flying out of Bradley. I should be so lucky and find such a great deal when it comes time to make our reservations. I am willing to spend some time and do my research if it will enable us to save $$$
Hoping the HIFS will offer reduced rates for 7+ night stay so we can get in that extra night. Would like to take at least one day to "relax" at the hotel.
Naomi :cool:

[Wish Upon A Star]

It truly has changed . . .but it is more magical than ever!

But watch out . . .we thought 1999 was going to be our only family trip there! We caught the Disney bug! I couldn't believe how wonderful it was we always have a truly magical time!

We always look forward to our return trips . . .and now we are counting down the days . . .88 more to go!!:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by Wish Upon A Star
It truly has changed . . .but it is more magical than ever!

But watch out . . .we thought 1999 was going to be our only family trip there! We caught the Disney bug! I couldn't believe how wonderful it was we always have a truly magical time!

We always look forward to our return trips . . .and now we are counting down the days . . .88 more to go!!:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:
So will you be doing anything special to celebrate your 15th anniversary while down there? Our 10th anny is next June......we ALWAYS said that we would celebrate it by going to WDW ...........

[Wish Upon A Star]

Well for one thing, we are going to eat at our favorite places:

Coral Reef
Ohana's

My kids didn't really enjoy the above . . .they are very picky . . .My daughter will only eat chicken fingers or burgers and my son will just eat burgers, grilled cheese and hot dogs.

We are looking forward to doing this quick 4 day trip because it will be very romantic (hopefully). Taking strolls around our resort, going to Pleasure Island, etc.

My husband was talking about renewing our vows when we are there, but I don't know if he has anything planned for that . . .I think the best part of the trip will be to be able to spend alone, quality time while in a beautiful and magical place.:D

We haven't been to WDW alone since 1991 (our daughter was 1 1/2 when we went and we decided not to take her).

[minivanmomof2]

We have also talked about renewing our vows. Haven't given much thought to doing it there(WDW) seeing as how this is our first time there and is a family vacation. Just afraid it would TOO much!
Just got off the phone with HIFS and the woman I spoke to told me to call back in a few weeks(end of April/beginning of May) for July 2003 rates. Had her give me the July 2002(just for comparison) and I was quoted $139(including two adult dinners) Not bad at all! The less we have to put out of pocket the better! :D

[dwfanatic]

Hi to all...we live in CT too! We are going down in July- we paid $471 for 3 of us out of Bradley. I personally love getting to Orlando in just over 3 hours...I wouldn't drive.

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by dwfanatic
Hi to all...we live in CT too! We are going down in July- we paid $471 for 3 of us out of Bradley. I personally love getting to Orlando in just over 3 hours...I wouldn't drive.
:D ANOTHER NEIGHBOR.........
May I ask........what airline are you flying with? Did you get your tickets over the internet. I'm taking LOTS of notes folks!
BTW, went along with my son's nursery school class last week to Kid City. Everyone has always spoken so highly of it..... Was actually a bit disappointed but maybe that was because we were in a group(it was our first time).

[dwfanatic]

Hi back, neighbor!!

We are flying on Delta- got tickets over the internet. I watched the fares for months and they hovered at $190 a ticket. When they dropped, I jumped on them. Over the past 3 years, we never paid that low of a fare- always around $190.

Yeah- Kidcity is fun, but just too small for groups. If we go we go first thinkg in the AM or 1 hour right before closing- we had season passes about a year ago. THe weekends are crazy- the place is small- too small for all of the people that want to go there.

[mark & sandra]

Hello again minivanmomof2-
We seem to cross paths quite a bit. We've driven before. We won't again!! As for flying SWA, if you check the site often enough you'll see a patten for when they open up ressies for your needed times. Call occasionally and ask if they know when they will open up for your dates. ( Don't count on them to be 100% right ) Last year we checked site every day for 1 1/2 months prior to the opening of our needed times.(about 4 1/2 months out ) We spoke to the rep. on one day and were told that they had heard of nothing yet. The next day we checked at 8.00am and still nothing, later in the day ,about 1pm when I checked, it was opened and completely sold out on our departing dates. It seems that everyone was waiting for that same airline to open up booking. We changed our departure date, ( earlier by one day ) and got tickets from Islip to Orlando for 109.00 each complete. We needed to change our car rental and hotel ressies and we were lucky that both were able to be done. If you are looking to book at SWA, make sure you check often and be ready to book the second your times become available.
Good Luck again.

[Humpbacks1962]

Middletown representin'...

I would never drive. Although my children are older (9 and 12) it is hard and boring on everyone, and I do not want to agonize over thinking about driving back!

Think about the oil changes, the tires, the gas, the tolls, you back and your butt!

I am flying Delta in August for $180, round trip. I booked very early. Every year I plan to go , I decide early. That way I get the best fares, resort rates, scan the boards for deals, etc. A three hour flight always beast that drive!

Heck, I'll fly but before I drive, I take the train!

Wanda

[EllenJ]

We have gone to Florida at least twice a year for the past 15 years or so. To save money we would drive one time and fly the other. There are pro's and con's to both. Lately I have become partial to flying if only to save wear and tear on my body. Also, we have gotten some great airfare deals lately. We flew Southwest last November for ...get this... $75 per person.
We could not drive for that price. We drove this past February and it took us 19 hours. We left at 3:00 am and were in Daytona Beach at 9:00pm. As long as you dont hit any major traffic jams or weather related problems it is not a bad way to go.
We also purchased one of those TV/VCR combos for our van and it is a life saver. ( If only you could get cable :-) ).
I would keep checking the airfares and if something good comes up I would take it, if not then drive....
Ellen

[Humpbacks1962]

Wasn't that Southwest deal of $75 per person ONE way, though? In that case, what is the point? Most people need round trip fares and with fees and all you pay about $160, which I paid with Delta...

It is almost as expensive to take the train and the wear and tear on your car alone plus the expense of getting there certainly could add up to about that much too!


Wanda

[EllenJ]

We went last thanksgiving. I booked the tickets in July. I had been looking at paying around $200 each and then they had a sale and it ended up costing $225 (with tax included) for the 3 of us. I have flown to Fla many times and had never paid that little for a flight (non stop at that).

[BedKnobbery2]

Just another rah-rah post for SWA lol...We are booked for a roundtrip flight out of Manchester, NH to Orlando in August. Cost for 4 seats was $448 total. There are only 3 of us, but the extra room will be most welcome. :D Even divided among 3, that's less than $150 per person. We booked the 'friends fly free' special.

[ctgirlluvsmickey]

My family has driven twice from CT (fairfield county area) to WDW. There were 14 of us and it took us 23 hours with a stops and a stay overnight in Florence,SC...We have also taken flights down there...I would NEVER drive down there again! The ride down isn't bad, but, the ride back, when you have spent 7 or more days in WDW and you're all Disneyed out, all you want to do is get home..It is a miserable and long ride home...and noone whats to volunteer to drive..

[QuickGold]

Wow, someone else is from Madison, CT...now I've seen everything(I go to school now in New York) :D

My advice is driving is fun the first few times, and my family and I used to do it all the time. Flying is definetly easier and faster, so it comes down to saving money and the ability to sit in a car.

Take my advice and space the driving to 3 days(I-95 all the way to I-4).

Day 1: Madison to Upper Virginia Area
Day 2: Virginia to Georgia(Near Florida border)
Day 3: You arrive

Go Tigers!

[mslukie]

We drive every year from WI (26 hrs.) Over the last 28 years, some years I was the only driver, which sucked. But when you have 2 drivers its not bad. The kids enjoying visiting the different states and sites along the way. I also write down a scavanger hunt for the kids to find along the way. This keeps them busy looking for the different items. Who ever has the most finds gets a special Disney gift when we get there. Depending on how many kids, there could be first, second prize etc. If you have any ?? you could email me. lukielaona@webtv.net

[minivanmomof2]

I appreciate all of the WONDERFUL advice/suggestions from everyone that took the time to post a reply. DH and I have decided to FLY. We have plenty of time so we( I), LOL, will do quite a bit of price comparison when it comes time to book our flight.
Thanks everyone! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading everyone's stories..........

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by EllenJ
We went last thanksgiving. I booked the tickets in July. I had been looking at paying around $200 each and then they had a sale and it ended up costing $225 (with tax included) for the 3 of us. I have flown to Fla many times and had never paid that little for a flight (non stop at that).
WOW, I'd say you lucked out!!
West Haven huh...know it very well. Haven't been out that way in a couple of years though. Did anything ever go into the empty rest. next to Jimmy's(what was the name of that place.....cannot for the life of me think of it?)

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by BedKnobbery2
Just another rah-rah post for SWA lol...We are booked for a roundtrip flight out of Manchester, NH to Orlando in August. Cost for 4 seats was $448 total. There are only 3 of us, but the extra room will be most welcome. :D Even divided among 3, that's less than $150 per person. We booked the 'friends fly free' special.
LOVE your Spongebob! ;)

[MsDisney]

Originally posted by BedKnobbery2
Just another rah-rah post for SWA lol...We are booked for a roundtrip flight out of Manchester, NH to Orlando in August. Cost for 4 seats was $448 total. There are only 3 of us, but the extra room will be most welcome. :D Even divided among 3, that's less than $150 per person. We booked the 'friends fly free' special.

I'm just curious...and don't get me wrong here...but what did you enter for the 4th person if there are only 3 of you...and also, WHY book 4 seats if you're only using 3 of them? You won't have extra "room" as SWA has open seating anyway...It seems to me that all that will do is allow one less person to book a flight...although, if someone is on standby, it will make THEM very happy! :D :D :D
Just curious is all...I think it's a great deal, and I'd like to see everyone get a chance to take advantage of it! My kids are flying home from Orlando to Boston for the summer and I paid $224 round trip for them, so I know I'm thrilled!!! :)

Karen

[tiggerz]

Hi there.

I am also in Connecticut (near New Britain) and fly out of Bradley as often as we go. With my boys I would not dream of driving even though they are teen and preteen. Part of it is because I can almost get lost going around the block :) I totally believe in the Disney transportation and think it is so efficient. I get Tiffany Towncar from airport to resort with a free quick grocery stop to save on bottled water and snacks. I would save on gas and wear and tear on the car and fly by getting a great deal online. I have used priceline and airline websites. Bestfares.com also has good prices, especially if you are a member. I took the autotrain once too from the D.C. area after driving down there. It was a pleasant experience but flying in 2 hours 45 mins nonstop is alot better. The time saved from driving gives you that much extra vacation time and less traffic stress. Flying has it's own kind of stress but no detours and roadblocks :) Feel free to email me neighbor. I have been to Disney several times and would love to help in any way if I can. Have you definately picked out a resort to stay at yet? I now use the codes I find on Mousesavers.com and get great deals. Planning is alot of fun. It's easy to become addicted to Disney after going only once :)

[minivanmomof2]

Hi tiggerz!
Geez, we can "reach out and touch".....We're in Meriden(literally on the Berlin line). Lived in Newington for the first 7 years of my life.
We are set on staying at Holiday Inn Family Suites (that's about the ONLY thing we are set on) LOL
Sometimes I think we are very premature in planning so far in advance but I think even if for now I am just getting ideas,etc it can't hurt! Naturally we want to get the most for our $$$
Going to check out Bestfares right now and add that to MANY Disney bookmarks. Thanks so much for taking the time to post a reply.
I'm sure you haven't heard the last from me......LOL
Take Care,
Naomi
:D

[chris1gill]

Just wanted to say that EllenJ & I booked the same promotion last year... We also flew out of Hartford, ROUND TRIP for 75.00 each all taxes included... We will never see that deal again!!! I don't recall the exact date I booked it however... We paid 300.00 TOTAL for 4 people to fly round trip to Orlando... That was the best!

Sometimes the Southwest thing doesn't work out however... our next trip I want us to fly home the Sunday after Thanksgiving... I'm being very particular in this one case... I'm not willing to change the day we come home & I know that when Southwest opens their dates, that day will be blacked out from any special rates... so I went ahead & booked out of Providence on Delta... which actually worked out good, the fare was 189 & we had 90.00 in Delta credit... still 400 for the 4 of us ain't bad!!

I am partial to Southwest though, I think they do the best job & they're friendly about doing it...

[minivanmomof2]

Nice to hear so many nice things about Southwest. You can be sure I will check their rates first when it comes time to start shopping around for rates!
I should be so lucky and come across a deal like that! In my dreams! LOL
Thanks

[4nana]

Don't think we can consider driving :(
Our family needs 17 airline tickets for Dec. I have been
ckg' the airline prices everyday...so far they're running
$190- 250 from BWI Md. I hope it won't be a big mistake,
but we're gambling and holding out. We were told SW
won't introduce their Dec fares till mid June. For those who
have flown SW in the winter, does this sound typical and
were the fares reasonable??
Thanx :)

[Humpbacks1962]

17 airline tickets? Wow.. couldn't you just charter a jet? LOL

I think transporting 17 people could be less expensive driving minivans, assuming there are plenty of adults who would take turns driving. But it is muh more fun to be there in just three hours.

By the way, I can't explain this one: My Delta flight's schedule changed, showing a reduction in time! My flight leaves at 7:00 AM and was sceduled to arrive a little after 10:00 AM. How in the world did they get to reduce flying time? Changing plane models or something?

Wanda

[chris1gill]

4Nana,

You are correct in your timeframe... December dates should be released by June... Last year I booked our December dates at the beginning of July for 75.00/rt from Hartford... Fares for December go down right after the fourth of July, literally like 2 days after...

As for us, I wanted to fly home the Sunday after Thanksgiving (a blackout date usually) so when I saw Delta with a fare for 189.00 from Providence I grabbed it & used our Delta credit, so the final price was 99.00 each... We got the credit from a previous Delta flight where they lost our luggage, cancelled our flights & a bunch of other stuff... I'm in no hurry to fly Delta, but for 99.00 coming home the Sunday after Thanksgiving, I'll do it.... Good luck with Southwest... before you book online with them, be sure to call their customer service & ask for additional discounts for 17 tickets... you should do okay...

[4nana]

Humpbacks1962..
The vans are a good idea, but this is a family reunion with our kids/grands
and some just don't have the leave that would be required to drive :(

Chris1gill...
Thanks alot for the tip! I have signed up for email specials from
several airlines and will keep an open eye for SW come June/July.
Hope you have better luck with Delta this time :)

[EllenJ]

Minivanmom,
The city bought the former Casino restaurant and turned it into the Savin Rock Conference Center. It is a wonderful location for parties. I've been to quite a few gatherings there and it is really nice by the water.

4nana,
Have you looked into getting a group rate with one of the airlines. A friend of mine and 10 of her closest friends and relatives are going to Las Vegas next month and they were able to book a group rate with Delta. It can't hurt to check it out. They saved quite a bit..

[4nana]

EllenJ...
Yes thanks, I have called several airline group offices,
but Dec is so far out no one is willing to bend, with
$200 being my best quote. I just have a feeling if we
can hang in there and not stress out something better
will turn up :D

[buzz2400]

I am from Trumbull, CT. I go to Orlando at least once a year. When my son was five I drove down to Florida with my parents. I will never do that again. It is too long and too tiring. I fly down now with my son. You are there in about 3 hours v. 2 full days. I won't pay more than $200 per ticket. I also will only fly direct. After 9/11 my direct flight on Metrojet was discontinued and we had to stop over in Philly. Will never do that again. Keep in mind though if you fly you will most likely rent a car which can cost you about $200 for the week.

[minivanmomof2]

Originally posted by EllenJ
Minivanmom,
The city bought the former Casino restaurant and turned it into the Savin Rock Conference Center. It is a wonderful location for parties. I've been to quite a few gatherings there and it is really nice by the water.

4nana,
Have you looked into getting a group rate with one of the airlines. A friend of mine and 10 of her closest friends and relatives are going to Las Vegas next month and they were able to book a group rate with Delta. It can't hurt to check it out. They saved quite a bit..

Casino.........that's it. Wasn't it something else at one time(Harbor Mist???). Sounds like they made good utilization of the building(prime location). Thanks for the update. I know this is gonna sound real corny but DH and I first said those three magic words to one another at West Haven Beach(14 years ago this June). :D

[Halle]

Go to Orbitz .com. They have a special Florida promotion going on. Rochester NY to MCO is is $127.00 roundtrip. Great rate but not as good as the $98.00 roundtrip rate I got 2 months a go also on Orbitz!! Good luck!!!

[disneydeb]

i have done both we drove to florida twice and may i say NEVER NEVER AGAIN, forget it we use to drive down in the 1970's when there were'nt half as many cars on the road and this is how we would do it, my husband would drive from ct to rockkky mount NC which is the halfway point 12 hours and then i had to drive till we got over the florida boarder then he would drive again, that took 24 hours eating at mcdonalds on the way you have to time it just right so you dont get stuck in ny traffic, i think we left at 4am, then we get to our hotel and waste one whole day sleeping!!!!! it always took about 3 days to recover from ddriving, and we were both in our 20's then, now i would'nt do anything but fly, airfares are cheap enough from ct, then rent a car from national car rental right at the airport and trust me you save yourself a lot of aggrevation that way, also if your car breaks down while you have a rental they bring you another one if you have your own your responsible to fix your own, oh yes and if you drive lets not forget about those annoying south of the boarder billboards that start about 500 miles so it seems before you get to the nc/sc biarder, and if you leave at 4 am you should get there about 2 am when its closed anyway.

[Rpsemont]

minivanmomoftwo - We have always flown. here's a history of our fares. the trick is to be flexible with dates

First trip Feb 1999 - flights booked October 1998 USAIR $180 pp RT

[Rpsemont]

minivanmomoftwo - We have always flown. here's a history of our fares. the trick is to be flexible with dates and watch the specials

First trip Feb 1999 - flights booked October 1998 USAIR $180 pp RT Then
in November there was a sale and I was able to get $30 credit for future flight
Trip 2 - Feb 2000 - flights booked Oct - Nov 1999 used $30 credit - net cost $120
Trip 3 - Feb 2001 - Flights booked Dec 2000 - USair special $108 RT
Trip 4 - Dec 2001 - flights booked in August SWA $75 PP RT!!!!!
Trip 5 - Mar 2002 - flights booked Jan 2002 - SWA $101.50 RT
All flights out of Hartford.

You may find yourself adding on a day or two so that you get the discount fares and the 7 days at HIFS, but through pricline we were able to get 3* hotels for arrival and departure days at bids of $35 - total cost about $45 per night.

Also I used priceline for the car rental and got a moderate size car for a week for about $100, as best I can remember.

I suggest signing up for Travelocity's Website and tell them to notify you when the flights are below $150. I think you can also do this with Expedia. Also sign up for SWA specials
I know right now you can book for June dates on SWA with the Friends Fly Free promo for about $115 PP

[minivanmomof2]

THANKS you guys! MORE good advice!
Naomi :D

[Pig Pen]

It takes us 24 to 26 hours straight thru from Vermont - mostly on I-95 with a couple bypasses around NYC, Baltimore, D.C., etc. We usually leave VT mid afternoon, arriving in Orlando the next afternoon. On the way home we stop for the night so we don't get TOO tired (must be refreshed for work, you know).

In the past we have stayed off site - Days Inns, Motel 6, etc. This past year we stayed the first night off site, then checked into ASMO for the rest of the trip. I will never stay off site again. We will stay at the Dolphin this upcoming trip and I cannot wait to be able to WALK to 2 parks!

We have flown before and I must say that getting there in 4 hours definitely beats 24 in the car. I have been anxiously watching airfares for our September trip (SWA & Jet Blue fares are out only for early Sept. and we are going 3rd week).

However, DH LOVES to drive and really wants to drive down in September. I told him, no way unless we get a new car.

Well he called my bluff. We're picking up our new car tomorrow......but I am still keeping track of the airfares! We have made another deal...if I can get a flight out of Burlington for under $150 we will fly. (This is possible, but not likely)