**Official December 2010 Thread!!**

[SageFemme]

We can't possibly be the only ones going in December 2010 now can we?!?! :cool1: :santa:

Come out, come out, wherever you are!!

What's your story? Why December 2010? When and what resort?

For us, we planned on having a wedding in Dec. 2008 and honeymooning at WDW. Instead, we got married at the courthouse in July 2008 because DH's parent's house was available to rent immediately and we wanted to hurry things up. Now I wish we would have gotten married at WDW! Ugh! Well, due to financial reasons we couldn't go in Dec. 2008, so we decided Dec. 2009. Seeing as how things are going currently, we're also unable to go this Dec. So now we are hoping for Dec. 2010. Why am I so set on Dec. you may ask? Well, first of all, DD's birthday is Dec. 5th so we would like to make this a surprise birthday trip. Secondly, I am obsessed with anything and everything Christmas so what better time? We are hoping this is our first and last family WDW trip as a family of 3 as we are going to start TTC that month!!

So, the tentative dates are from Dec. 4th-12th, but the last date could change. We were planning on staying at AKL all year, but now I'm thinking the Contemporary might be a better fit for this trip because my DD loves trains and would love the monorail. Better yet, maybe we should do a split stay and stay at Contemporary the first half and AKL the second half? :scratchin

Who's next?!

[mirokey]

Hi!

We are attending WDW Dec 4th-12th offsite. My husband is attending a work conference so we are tagging along. I am super excited since this will be my first time seeing WDW at Christmas!

:woohoo:

Rose

[SageFemme]

Are we the only ones?? I hope so, maybe the parks will be less crowded! LOL

[wlwilliams9]

We booked WL for Dec 4-11, 2010!! I can't wait and a LONG wait it will be. We usually go to Disney in May for our anniversaey, but this year we came home with a Disney souvenir that is 9 months in the making!! She wil be here in January and so we decided to take a December vacation so she would be big enough to sit up on her own in the stroller and at restaurants. We're also excited to see the Christmas decorations! :santa:

[AngelBabyJana]

Hi there! :wave2: You can count us in as well. We are planning our 2nd trip to Disney for December 4-12 of 2010. It will be our family of 6 (me, hubby, our 3 kids, and my nephew). We will probably be staying in two rooms at Pop Century, but that is still being discussed.

We just took our very 1st trip to Disney this past October, and we all fell in love with Disney! :lovestruc Everyone had such a great time, our kids keep asking when they can go back. We plan to surprise them with this trip for next December .... we are going to try to keep it a secret until Nov of 2010. When we put up the Christmas tree on Thanksgiving weekend of next year, we will wrap a big box (a Christmas gift that they will need to open early) telling them about the trip (Mickey balloons, Disney Dollars, countdown calendar, etc....) That will be about a week before we go! For our first trip, the kids knew a year in advance, and that was a long wait for the younger ones.

We had so much fun at Disney for Halloween, so we can't wait to experience Disney at Christmas time! :santa:

We keep trying to decide if we should go the first or second week in December (want to avoid the last two weeks in Dec for sure!) ..... so far, looks like the first week is the popular choice.

Our daughter's birthday is on December 11th, so we will also be celebrating her birthday while we are there! We will pick a nice restaurant, order a cake, and take a few small presents along for her to open that day!

Can't wait! Let the (long) COUNTDOWN begin!

[Disneydonnam]

We will be there. We are doing our first Disney Cruise Dec 2nd-5th and then will be at the Contempory 5th-12th.

[Pjimmeyer]

Oooh! Oh! Us too! :teeth:

We will be there from Dec 7 to Dec 17 and staying in the CR. Our favorite time of year at the parks, and the CR is home. Always has been...always will be...I couldn't imagine staying anywhere else. :goodvibes

[CNYGuy]

How far in advance did you make your reservations? We are thinking of mid November 2010 or early December 2010 on site.:confused:

[Mrs. Charming]

Count me in! Dec 8-16th, as long as we're there on the 12th for my big 3-0!!

It'll be our first time at the POLY! :P

[ppan77]

Well after watching the HGTV special on Xmas decorating in WDW I have convinced my husband to do a mini weekend next December. Now is just deciding when and where. Most likely a value but we will see. Now I need to get my dates together!! Any suggestions on which week to go? Definitely must do MVMCP!

[smallfri1112]

I'll be there December 3 - 11, 2010, staying at the Coronado. FINALLY... I am under 1 year!! WOOHOO!!! :cool1:

[MinnieVanMom]

I had to give up our annual MNSSHP, Free Dining and my Birthday but we did decide to go the first week in December 2010 to see the decorations and the many extras of the holidays.

BCV but I have to wait until the 7 month window and hope we get in. So far we have gotten to go there the last 3 trips.

See you all next Christmas in Disney.

[crock]

Count us in for December 2010. Our tentative dates are the 4th -11th. I haven't booked yet, as I am trying to wrap my head around whether to go for the 40% pin code I received for deluxe resort. DS (11) would love to stay at AKL, or hope for free dining.... We have only ever stayed at All Star Sports, which we love. We've never looked for specials when we are booking nor have we used the dining plan. We have,however, gone the first week of December before and absolutely loved it. This trip is at DH request to return during that time again. The decorations and the added festivities are not to be missed!! Angelbabyjana, I think your surprise trip is wonderful. We surprised our son when he was 6! I loved the reveal! Its still one of my fondest Disney related memories!!

[Mrs. Charming]

Count us in for December 2010. Our tentative dates are the 4th -11th. I haven't booked yet, as I am trying to wrap my head around whether to go for the 40% pin code I received for deluxe resort. DS (11) would love to stay at AKL, or hope for free dining.... We have only ever stayed at All Star Sports, which we love. We've never looked for specials when we are booking nor have we used the dining plan. We have,however, gone the first week of December before and absolutely loved it. This trip is at DH request to return during that time again. The decorations and the added festivities are not to be missed!! Angelbabyjana, I think your surprise trip is wonderful. We surprised our son when he was 6! I loved the reveal! Its still one of my fondest Disney related memories!!

We got $219 a night for the Poly with the PIN!! I think AKL was roughly $145 for a standard view room. Can't beat that!! *Well, FD is a better deal if you have a larger family... but there's no guarantee on FD being extended to Dec again. :goodvibes

[Rags]

We are arriving Nov 27th thru Dec 5th staying at Pop Century!!!:santa:

[crock]

I don't think I've seen the answer to this can some one tell me if they know what date the 2010 Christmas day parade (I know they pretape it) is? I think its typically the first Saturday or Sunday of the month. Also does anyone know if its a parade like any other where you just have to find a seat and wait for the magic to begin?

[LaLupita]

Hi! Dec 19-26 POP with hubby, DD and DS. First Christmas my hubby takes this week off from work!!! :banana:

[shopn24seven]

I just came back from WDW and the XMAS parade.
You pretty much stand for 3 hours.........they tape at various times.
It is SUPER crowded. WARNERS are there, too, so DOUBLE crowded.

[shopn24seven]

I think it is always the FIRST w/e in Dec....
This yrs was SUPPOSE to be 12/3 - 12/5. Weather was bad, so they did it on Saturday.

[lilmissdisney216]

We're planning on Dec. 16th-22nd at the Boardwalk!!! Can hardly wait!!

[Totally Tink]

Planning on December 17-24! I am booked at POFQ but may rent some DVC points instead. :thumbsup2

[crock]

I just came back from WDW and the XMAS parade.
You pretty much stand for 3 hours.........they tape at various times.
It is SUPER crowded. WARNERS are there, too, so DOUBLE crowded.

So, I am trying to decide whether the parade is worth coming for despite the crowds and standing around. We love seeing the parade on Christmas morning but if I getting the right message is I love it because of the editting and the comfort of my own home. My original thoughts were to take an extra day to compensate for the day of waiting for the parade (coming Friday and leaving the following Saturday) but perhaps its not worth it, come in on the Sat and miss the crowds at MK. We have done this same week before and loved it immensely. This go round will be different with the 40% pin and staying at AKL. Maybe that's enough??

[Pjimmeyer]

We just got back from our best trip ever (12/14 - 12/21) and are now officially addicted to Disney Christmas. We booked a bounce-back for 12/7 - 12/17 2010 back at the CR. Another anniversary trip alone with my sweety! :goodvibes

[shopn24seven]

We will be here the same time.
Booked a BB for 12/11 - 12/17.
Can't wait.:banana:

[taragarza1]

We are going Dec 5th - Dec 10th!!!!!! Can't wait, staying at Treehouse Villas! Sounds like lots are planning to go that week. :cool1:

[crock]

Count me in too! Dec 4th-11th WL!! :yay::yay: 40% pin code certainly helped!! Can't wait....happy planning to all!

[heaven2dc]

We're planning on Dec. 16th-22nd at the Boardwalk!!! Can hardly wait!!

You will love the Boardwalk! This upcoming trip in Dec 2010 will be my 4th time staying there plus we got Boardwalk view - I can hardly wait either!

Oooh! Oh! Us too! :teeth:

We will be there from Nov 29 to Dec 8 and staying in the CR. Our favorite time of year at the parks, and the CR is home. Always has been...always will be...I couldn't imagine staying anywhere else. :goodvibes

We will be there from Nov 28 to Dec 3 and staying at BWV. I hope the crowds will be low and I can't wait to see all the Christmas decorations again! This will be my youngest 2 sons' first trip plus my other kids haven't been since 1997.

[Rags]

We are arriving Nov 27th thru Dec 5th staying at Pop Century!!!:santa:


Scratch that.... We were lucky enought to get the 20/30/40 pin so we are now booked at the Contemporary!!!:cool1::cool1:

[my3sonstx]

I am so excited I found this thread. We went to disney for the first time June 2009. I cried so hard when we left, my DH agrred we could come back Dec. 2010. Our dates are not official, but were thinking Dec 11-18th. I am so hoping for a pin code or some special to come out during this time. We stayed at POFQ last time and am thinking CSR this time or maybe poly, WL, or CR ( I am not holding my breath though). So, does anyone else have a Ressie wish list going?

[purplejulie456]

Dec. 8-12th WL.............Can't wait the countdown is on :cool1:. We love going around this time of year.

[torian]

We'll be there from Nov 28-Dec 5!!!

This will be our first time seeing Disney @ Christmas...and we are staying at the WL - the Chistmas pics of that resort look beautiful!!!

And now I can say "I'm going to Disney this year!" :)

Tori

[momma2minnie]

Just hung up the phone!

Count us in for Dec 9-15, 2010!
Polynesian here we come!

[Avalon_toon]

Just booked at POFQ Dec. 9-16th!

[Susiesnowflake]

We join the Dec crowd! Returning to the Polynesian Nov 30th! :)

[Poppinsme]

Howdy everybody!!!:woohoo:

WOW we cant wait for our trip Nov. 29-Dec. 8, 2010.
WooHoo!!! Poly here we come!!!:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

(Ive bought all the books already about WDW.:rolleyes:)

[torian]

I got a 40% pin code for our trip in December!!!! AND there was availability so my reservation is exactly as it was before!!!

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

[heaven2dc]

I got a 40% pin code for our trip in December!!!! AND there was availability so my reservation is exactly as it was before!!!

:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

I saw that you are going about the same time we are (we will arrive 11/28 and leave 12/3/10). How great that you got the 40% pin code and could use it! I'm excited to hear how you like the WL - a friend at work is staying there in May by renting points and his family is so excited. We are staying at BWV with a boardwalk view (renting points too) so if you happen to wander over to the Boardwalk area and see a group of people standing on the balconies watching the magician (our fav nightly pasttime before watching Illuminations), wave hi to us :yay: (We are renting a 2-bedroom villa plus 2 studios).

[maxiesmom]

Just booked the Beach Club for a quick weekend trip December 3-6. I work retail, so I can't get much time off, but a little time at Disney World is better than none, right?

I received the 20/30/40 pin code too, so I let my 10yr old niece pick the resort, and the Beach Club was her choice. Which should be perfect, as we want to see the Christmas lights at both Epcot and the Disney Studios. We also plan on doing a Mvmcp, but I'm not sure if we will do Friday or Sunday night.

Can someone explain the Osborne lights to me? Are they turned on at a certain time? Is is better to see them early in the night, or does it not really make a difference?:confused3

[mamasita04]

My in-laws are taking the whole family 12/3-12/10. We are staying at All-Star Sports. There will be 11 of us total (6 adults and 5 kids ages 12, 10, 6, 5, & 4). We can't wait!!!

Does anyone think if they offer free dining again this year that it will extend back into December like it did this year????

[Cinderella1122]

and I can't wait to go again!!! We will be there Dec 26th - January 1st split stay at Fort Wilderness and Beach Club Villas. We will be celebrating my Mom's 50th birthday.

[rainydayplay]

We're planning on 12/3-12/7 @ the Wilderness Lodge. It will mean taking DD out of school for 2 days (and using my 2 personal days at my own school...) and will also mean no Princess half-marathon in 2011...but we're dying to see the Christmas lights live and in-person! (And, of course...we have 2008 and 2009 shirts...we have to have 2010, too!)

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

Hey everyone!!!!! We will be there too!!!!!!!! Nov. 28th through Dec. 7th!!!
We are staying at POP with my family of 4, my parents, my sister and brother (and their plus 1s) and my sister and her family!!! Doing 7 days in-park with a day reserved for Sea World (we have seasons passes through Busch Gardens). We already booked but are hoping (fingers crossed) for free DDP this year!!!!! Can't wait~

[disneybarbie]

Hi everyone!

I was just about to start a December 2010 thread.. then realised there already is one!! :goodvibes

I actually just went to WDW for December 9th-14th last year with my sister... we had an amazing time, it was 5 days full of festive fun & Disney magic!! :santa: (almost finished my TR.. in signature!)

Now, DBF really enjoys WDW but is not quite the Disney-obsessed fan that I am! Yet he seemed genuinely jealous that I was going to WDW without him!
So.. I suggested, the two of us go in December 2010, and also go somewhere we've never been, but have always wanted to.. New York City!!

Then, something happened over the holidays that made me think this trip would have to be postponed because.. DBF proposed!!!!! :woohoo: It was a complete surprise and I am totally over the moon, not stopped smiling since Christmas morning :lovestruc .. so now we obviously need to save money for our wedding, but DBF (now.. DF I guess!) said it was still fine to for us to go on vacation in December 2010.. I'm calling it our Engagement Vacation! :cutie:

On Sunday, I booked our flights - I got a good deal with Virgin Atlantic for the transatlantic flights, £380 each + some of my frequent flyer miles.. :thumbsup2 .. just need to book the JFK to MCO flight, think I can do this on Jet Blue in a few months time.

My family are DVC members so yesterday we booked a studio at our home resort.. Disney's Boardwalk Villas, with a boardwalk view!
DF and I have stayed at BWV, SSR & YC together so far.. and BW is probably our fave!

We'll be in NYC December 8th-11th then WDW 11th-17th

I can't wait to see the Christmas decorations again, go to MVMCP and all the other great festive things at the most magical place on earth! :wizard:

Looking forward to hearing about everyone else's plans

Emma princess:

[Bearybear]

We'll be there Dec. 8-16. We're staying at the Contemporary! Just last night my DS asked if we could go back to Disney World. We won't tell him until just before we leave, as we had to cancel our Feb. trip due to work committments.

[bek1758]

Soooo excited! Just booked our 11/28-12/4 trip today using a 40% pin (first time using pin code!) We'll being staying at the Wilderness Lodge. We can't wait to see it decorated:woohoo:

[*Pixiedust1438*]

We will be there doing our Planning Session for our Disney Fairy Tale Wedding! :yay: I am super excited to be going over Christmastime as we have never been during this time, and I LOVE Christmas! It will be a short trip because DF does not have a lot of vacation time. Here is what we are thinking so far, (we are waiting to book until May when we get our date confirmed).

Hotel: Dolphin (we want to stay here because we've never before, and while Disney's hotels are at peak rates this week, the Swan and Dolphin are offering some of their lowest rates of the year.)
Dinning: Biergarten in Epcot (hopefully booking the dinner package for seating at the Candlelight Processional.)
Jiko at AKL after a day in the AK
T-rex, this is DF's pick and is new since out last trip.
Ill Mulino or Bluezoo, can't decide. Any suggestions?
Lunch at Big River Grille and Brewing Works
Christmas activities: All of them! MVMCP (anyone know when dates come out?), Candlelight processional, Osbourne Family Spectacle of Lights, etc.

*I hope the crowds aren't too bad since it's close to Christmas, but me and DF are both college students so we can't go until after finals.

[jvaleri1]

Count us in too! We'll be staying at SSR from Dec 5th to the 18th. DH & I call SSR "Home". Took him to Disney for the 1st time for his 25th bday (almost 13 yrs ago) and he's been addicted ever since.

We bought into DVC @ SSR two years ago and this will be our 3rd visit home. First visit was January 2008 with the his parents. We loved seeing everything decorated. This year we're talking my folks - they wanted to see it decorated and we're celebrating a year of my dad being cancer free.

Can't wait to go!! Booked our airline tickets yesterday - USAir had a great deal that we just couldn't pass up.

[topdog]

We wil be there from Nov 28 to Dec 9 at WL. It's our 4th trip but 1st for Christmas time. You can stop by to check my PTR.

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

We wil be there from Nov 28 to Dec 9 at WL. It's our 4th trip but 1st for Christmas time. You can stop by to check my PTR.

TopDog, I have to say that I am on day 4 of your disaster report......WOW, your pictures are AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! We will be there Nov. 28th through Dec. 7th! I can only hope to bump into you and shake your hand!

[topdog]

TopDog, I have to say that I am on day 4 of your disaster report......WOW, your pictures are AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! We will be there Nov. 28th through Dec. 7th! I can only hope to bump into you and shake your hand!

Hi. Thank you for stopping by to read my TR. Glad you like the pictures. I will make sure to have my LGMH ready so you can spot me while I am in the park. I plan to have a whole lot more pictures for this trip.

[gemmybear83]

Count us in too!

Were there 4th-20th December:
4-9th Swan and Dolphin
9th our WDW wedding at the Yacht Club :bride:
9-11 Yacht Club Resort
11-18 Disney Magic Western Cruise
18-20 Wilderness Lodge Villas

We are soooooo excited!:yay:

[kstatefamily]

I just booked for 12.03.10 - 12.11.10 at the Wilderness Lodge. We recieved the 40% off pin code.

:cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1:

[thejman]

We were there this past Dec. and received a bounce back offer, so we booked for 12/4 - 12/12 at the GF. We just love Disney at Christmas time!:santa:

[heaven2dc]

TopDog, I have to say that I am on day 4 of your disaster report......WOW, your pictures are AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! We will be there Nov. 28th through Dec. 7th! I can only hope to bump into you and shake your hand!

We are arriving on Nov. 28th also and I had to comment on your signature, Pyrate_Pryncess - I see that you are trying to lose 30 lbs in 10 months. I am trying to lose 40 (but more like 30 lbs) - any tips on your success so far?

Count us in too!

Were there 4th-20th December:
4-9th Swan and Dolphin
9th our WDW wedding at the Yacht Club :bride:
9-11 Yacht Club Resort
11-18 Disney Magic Western Cruise
18-20 Wilderness Lodge Villas

We are soooooo excited!:yay:

A wedding at Disney - how exciting! Congratulations - sounds like wonderful honeymoon plans as well!

[angelsmith52]

Count us in! We are planning a surprise trip after Christmas. Thinking 12/28 thru 1/4. Is all the Christmas stuff still up then?
We aren't even going to tell the kids where we are going until they figure it out for themselves. Just going to pack up and head out "for a little trip". I am going to leave "hints" around the house starting in October but nothing to obvious. Maybe a mickey head or two will just appear, not sure yet.
I am so excited about it. It will be my family of 5 and a friend and her son. We are thinkning about staying at Pop in 2 rooms. We are still in the planning stage trying to see what the school schedule is for next year, but that is our plans so far!!!

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

[QUOTE=heaven2dc;35152759]We are arriving on Nov. 28th also and I had to comment on your signature, Pyrate_Pryncess - I see that you are trying to lose 30 lbs in 10 months. I am trying to lose 40 (but more like 30 lbs) - any tips on your success so far?



So far Heaven2DC , I've just been getting a little more active and I have banned McDonalds! We got into the habit of eating fast food way too much and now I am trying to cut it out! I haven't done it completely yet though but I have really good motivation.......We went last time with my inlaws and they are a bunch of super skinny people so in the pics I was the stand out! Im only 4 ft 11 so any weight shows on me! We have a YMCA membership but my 3 year old was kicked out of the "Y" when he was about 2! I have to meet with the board and show them proof of his "special needs"" and they will let us come back! Once I can start going again I am sure that I can do it!!! Disney is a great motivator for me....we also live 10 minutes away from one of the biggest water parks on the east coast also so that helps some too! The best advice I have is add extra steps into your day and eat your veggies!!!!!!!

[Craftydawn]

Hi everyone! :wave2:

I am SO happy to be able to post on this thread!! :cool1:

This weekend, I booked my FIRST ever trip to Disney World! We will be there from 12/10 to 12/19, staying at Pop. It will be myself, DH, and DM (mom). DH has been before when he was a teenager, but my mom and I have not.

We are Disneyland nuts as we live in northen California, so this will be a wonderful change!

Hope to see some of you there!

[Becky521]

Us too!!! from 12/18 - 12/28 at POFQ. This will be our 4th Christmas trip. '04 @ CS, '06 @ ASM and '08 @ WL. This time we are doing a Grand Gathering with some friends. Can't wait!!!:yay::yay::yay:

[domiii]

We are going December 1 to December 8. Currently, we have a 2 BR at SSR. Hoping at 7 months to get into BLT (yeah, right), a little pixie dust please!!

We've NEVER been during the holidays and are planning to go resort hopping to view the decorations. Also, we're getting the dining plan and planning to eat at places we normally would not, especially at the resorts. Why not we'll be passing through them anyway!!

[mickey58729]

We will be there Dec 1st-11th staying at Pop Century. This year we get to celebrated two birthdays while we are there. There is nothing like Disney decorated for the holidays!!!

[SabbyR]

Count us in too!! We are staying at POR from Dec.1 to Dec.10!:dance3: SO excited to see Disney at Chrsitmas!! I also hope they come out with Free Dining!popcorn::

[kellieinwonderland]

I've lurked for awhile, but this is my first post :) We'll be there! I just got the 40% off deluxe so we're going to be there Dec. 4th-8th at the Boardwalk.

I normally just go to Disney when I'm in Orlando, but I'm a HUGE Harry Potter fan so we're going to do Universal the 9th-11th after we leave disney so that I can check out the wizarding world of harry potter. We're super excited, and this board is addicting! December seems so far away.....

[annakate27]

We will be there!!! WE went Dec 09 for the 1st time and we booked next years trip with a BB offer. We will be going Dec 5-13th and staying at the GF again! We all cannot wait to see Cinderella's castle all lit up again! :santa::santa::santa::santa:

[Mr Wes]

Change of plans. We were gonna travel towards the end of November but we dont want deal with Holiday travelers and busy airports, so we have now changed our travel plans to the 1st week of December!!!!

[sakura]

I'll be there from Nov 30 to Dec 14 @ Pop. :yay:

[wdwgirl03]

My dad just told me that he made reservations today for right after Christmas at our "home," Saratoga Springs. :dance3: We got 2 studios and about a week and a half booked...we definitely won't keep all those dates but until we decide who's going and when that'll keep our options open. Ahhh so happy, I really want to take another Christmas trip!

[Vickis3js]

Count us in for another Christmas at WDW!!! Right now we are booked Dec 19-26AKV Kidani standard view 1 bedroom but we will more then likely add on the 18th just waiting for DH to give me the ok. We are DVC members and we bought in so we could go to WDW every Christmas. I got tired of family drama and having to do everything and never enjoying a Christmas with my children. Plus I would go way to insane with gifts for my kids and even they would get bored with opening everything. So we now go to WDW they get a stocking filled with goodies and a surprise Disney experiance for Christmas and they love every single second of it!

[yanni2]

We had a wonderful trip, and since December is the best time for us right now....our 2 girls compete gymnastics and the season is from September -November. So December is a great time to celebrate the end of a busy, hopefully great competition season!

So we have planned our 3rd (of 4 trips) at Christmas. We will be staying at our home resort of the Animal Kingdom Kidani Village, in a 2 bedroom, from December 7th - December 15th.

[ILoveMickeyandMinnie]

I'm so excited my family will be staying at POR from 12/12-12/19. We've been wanting to get back to WDW now for a while but something has always come up and delayed our trip. I'm determined that we will be going in December no matter what! :)

[kamerino]

I'll be taking my daughter on her first ever Disney vacation (she'll be 2 at the time) December 7-13th! We're staying at BCV. Started out as only my daughter and me, and its now the whole family! We'll be celebrating her first visit, my nephew's 12th birthday, and a family reunion. I can't wait!!! My OCD planning kicked into high gear as soon as I booked the room!

:goodvibes

[ilovediznee]

We are DVC members and booked at BWV from December 18-23rd (home resort) but might switch to AKV Kidani at the 7 month mark - haven't decided. This will be our second or third trip during the holidays. This means I have to get everything done before we leave because we don't come back until the 23rd so it makes me really work hard right after Thanksgiving to get it all done!!:santa::santa:

[Ackermom]

Whooooo Hoooo! We just booked for the first days of December. Dec 1-8, to be exact. Haven't got air fare yet as the prices for the airline we use aren't released yet. May have to drive from Michigan :drive:if fares are too much... Has anyone been the first week in Dec? Unofficial Guide says crowds are down. :goodvibesparty: We already have our restaurants picked out, but have to wait quite awhile to make ADR.

[BreezysMom]

Count us in :thumbsup2

We are heading back for in December! First we planned for July, then pushed it to August and after more and more conflicts came up we decided to just go in December.

Right now we are scheduled for 12/5 to 12/12 at the Poly but may come add a day and arrive on the 4th!

This will be our second December trip! DD and I have been watching our videos from our 2008 trip and making our must do/see lists! :cool1:

[disneymomma1978]

our trip is 12/28-12/7/10, right now I've booked Pop but I'm hoping to upgrade to CBR.
can someone tell me how people gets PINS? is there something I need to sign up for?

[jennytmitch]

We are booked @POP Dec 4th - 11th. So excited. We've never been during the holiday season. Looking forward to all the decorations.

[kkfinley]

We will be at CSR from Dec. 2-6, but the girls don't know it yet. Oh yeah, Nana and Papaw are coming too.

:banana: :cool1: :woohoo: :yay: :dance3: :cheer2:

[taylor3297]

We will be at the Poly from Dec 5-11th! I am hoping to add a night or two if we get a pin code.

[Lorilais_mommie]

My DH, DD (4), and I are coming in Dec 7-14th.
I wanted to stay in the CBR in the pirate room pirate:, but i was over ruled.
DD and DH love toy story so we will be in all-star movies.

This is what i need help with
My DH and I will be celebrating our 5th Ann. My DH has plans for CRT that night and we will be getting the chocolate slippier. (I was trying to surprise him with it but he found out)

My DH and I had a horrible wedding. Everything that could have gone wrong went wrong. Lost Dress, over an hour late, couldn't go on honeymoon due to an emergency.
So my 1st idea is to wear my wedding veil that he never saw the day of our Ann.

We also never got a share our 1st dance.
So my idea is that maybe when we go to CRT for dinner and if they let me, I was going to ask him for that dance. :rolleyes1
I do not if they will let me do this but, I do know the fairy godmother does a little show/dance during dinner.

Let me know what you think
and any other ideas in case they do not let us have that dance.

[Mrs. Charming]

My DH, DD (4), and I are coming in Dec 7-14th.
I wanted to stay in the CBR in the pirate room pirate:, but i was over ruled.
DD and DH love toy story so we will be in all-star movies.

This is what i need help with
My DH and I will be celebrating our 5th Ann. My DH has plans for CRT that night and we will be getting the chocolate slippier. (I was trying to surprise him with it but he found out)

My DH and I had a horrible wedding. Everything that could have gone wrong went wrong. Lost Dress, over an hour late, couldn't go on honeymoon due to an emergency.
So my 1st idea is to wear my wedding veil that he never saw the day of our Ann.

We also never got a share our 1st dance.
So my idea is that maybe when we go to CRT for dinner and if they let me, I was going to ask him for that dance. :rolleyes1
I do not if they will let me do this but, I do know the fairy godmother does a little show/dance during dinner.

Let me know what you think
and any other ideas in case they do not let us have that dance.

That sounds awesome for your trip, I'm sorry you had a crappy wedding. Sometimes in life you need a re-do.

I went to dinner at CRT and I remember a dance, but I don't remember if others danced. I dont see why not!

[Katie & Glen]

Hello everyone, my name is Katie and I have been addicted to Disney for the last 25 or so years. I have been non stop looking and planning and prepping for the last two months.

Ok, now that that's out of the way, I just booked my families trip for Dec 9-16 at AKL savanna view! SO EXCITED!! :banana:

This will be my 6th trip to the world and my husband and stepsons first time. Dear sweet stepson is a type A personality in training. My husband keeps groaning when I talk about how much there is to do every day in each of the parks, and the question I keep getting from him is : Aren't we going to have a few days of down time? This is where DSSS comes in and announces that we will only take a break during the day if we are all tired or if it is raining or too hot. We are going to Disney to see all the shows and ride all the rides! I love it!!

[Lorilais_mommie]

People are posting that they are getting free dining pin codes. So far they are only good untill Nov. 18th. ( maybe they will extend it untill DEC.) Has anyone got anything for DEC. yet????

[OregonGirl]

What's a pin code? I want in on this free dining!

My folks and I (their adult kid), will be heading to WDW December 1-12, staying at the Boardwalk Inn, club level!

:) - Carey

[Lorilais_mommie]

What's a pin code? I want in on this free dining!

My folks and I (their adult kid), will be heading to WDW December 1-12, staying at the Boardwalk Inn, club level!

:) - Carey

They get e-mail to you. Its all up to luck on who gets the pin codes.

[exwdwcm]

We are booked for our first stay at HOME as DVC members! We just purchased.

Seems like a lot of us are going the first week of Dec. count us in.

December 4-11th
Bay Lake Tower- Bay lake view one bedroom


Deciding on 8 day park hoppers vs APs
Planning on MVMCP and maybe Dessert Party if they still offer it again!
Right now, planning to eat a lot in our room since we have a full kitchen, but also planning O'hana, Crystal Palace breakfast, Chef Mickey's breakfast, Le Cellier and Teppan Edo and maybe JIKO. :)

Where are you planning to eat?

oh and check out my PRE Trip report too in the link below in blue.......if you have a PTR, let me know- i love reading them!

[exwdwcm]

People are posting that they are getting free dining pin codes. So far they are only good untill Nov. 18th. ( maybe they will extend it untill DEC.) Has anyone got anything for DEC. yet????I got a pin, but not for Free dining, it was for like 30% off deluxe rooms (and much less off on value/mods).
It was only good through August though.

Getting a pin is still a mystery-----many who go to WDW every year, more than once a year never receive them, and yet others do. There is no real formula to getting one, it is pretty random. However, i think the more you engage with Disney online, the better your chances are. We received a free dining pin last year after I registered for the free maps. So log on, request hte free DVD, maps or whatever else- register for everything they let you do on their site, the more you are in their database, the better, i guess. lol

[exwdwcm]

I don't think I've seen the answer to this can some one tell me if they know what date the 2010 Christmas day parade (I know they pretape it) is? I think its typically the first Saturday or Sunday of the month. Also does anyone know if its a parade like any other where you just have to find a seat and wait for the magic to begin?

So, I am trying to decide whether the parade is worth coming for despite the crowds and standing around. We love seeing the parade on Christmas morning but if I getting the right message is I love it because of the editting and the comfort of my own home. My original thoughts were to take an extra day to compensate for the day of waiting for the parade (coming Friday and leaving the following Saturday) but perhaps its not worth it, come in on the Sat and miss the crowds at MK. We have done this same week before and loved it immensely. This go round will be different with the 40% pin and staying at AKL. Maybe that's enough??


The christmas parade taping is almost always the first weekend in December (that saturday typically), unless weather interferes. They did have some weather issues with rain this year.

Unless you are just really into it, i wouldn't do the parade- you can see the Christmas parade (very similar to the one they tape) every night of the MVMCP (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party) and they run it twice a night for that. MVMCP's are usually on sunday, tues, thurs and fridays in December. They run the parade usually at 8;15pm and 10:30pm. We always watch the second one- minimal crowds and a great time!

I believe you have to actually be 'selected' or sign up to be in the parade audience. I don't think you can just walk up and be included, they have audience control. I think AP holders are given first dibs at tickets. I am pretty sure they have the taping area roped off, so if you do plan to do the MK that day and don't have a 'ticket' to be a parade audience member, then you have to walk around long ways to get around the main street area.

We will be arriving that Saturday and plan to avoid the MK completely! I know it will probably be a madhouse.

[jeanylaser]

our family can't wait to stay in POFQ for Dec 2010 by train!

[ginnymack]

We are joing the Dec 4-11 club! Anyone else a little scared of Pop Warner?

So far no pin codes. I am hoping for a good 40% or even better the 7 for 4 deal they ran last year. I was hoping for SV/GV at the Contemporary, but I cannot get all of the dates. Right now I have two long weekends booked, but I am missing the Tues & Wed night in between. I may just book Poly for the week to "get it done". Also, we have not ruled our renting dvc points at BLT. No airline booked yet, but I am thinking about getting that ball rolling soon - we hope to fly on our Amex miles so I need to start figuring out how to redeem!

[disneybarbie]

Hi everyone - the list of December 2010-ers is growing steadily!! :goodvibes

Regarding Pop Warner.. I was there last Dec for PW week and it really didn't affect our trip - occasionally we'd see groups of cheerleaders in the parks, but not huge groups like the South American tour groups that visit WDW in the summer months... maybe Pop & All Star Resorts might be busy with the PW families though? :confused3

Happy planning everyone! ... hopefully MVMCP tickets will go on sale May 1st so I can start 'properly' planning the December trip!! :rotfl:

Emma princess: x

[taylor3297]

You won't notice the Pop Warner folks too much if you don't stay at a value or the moderate overflop. If you are staying at a Deluxe, no problems. We will be there staying at the Poly that week.

[shopn24seven]

If you go to the MVMCP, you will notice them. Not too bad, overall.....
They stay busy in the day time. They are NOCTURNAL:rotfl:.

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

If you go to the MVMCP, you will notice them. Not too bad, overall.....
They stay busy in the day time. They are NOCTURNAL:rotfl:.

lmao, aren't ALL teenagers nocturnal?!?!?!?! lol:rotfl2:

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

The christmas parade taping is almost always the first weekend in December (that saturday typically), unless weather interferes. They did have some weather issues with rain this year.

Unless you are just really into it, i wouldn't do the parade- you can see the Christmas parade (very similar to the one they tape) every night of the MVMCP (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party) and they run it twice a night for that. MVMCP's are usually on sunday, tues, thurs and fridays in December. They run the parade usually at 8;15pm and 10:30pm. We always watch the second one- minimal crowds and a great time!

I believe you have to actually be 'selected' or sign up to be in the parade audience. I don't think you can just walk up and be included, they have audience control. I think AP holders are given first dibs at tickets. I am pretty sure they have the taping area roped off, so if you do plan to do the MK that day and don't have a 'ticket' to be a parade audience member, then you have to walk around long ways to get around the main street area.

We will be arriving that Saturday and plan to avoid the MK completely! I know it will probably be a madhouse.

We were in the audience in 2008, and it's NOT like a regular parade. Like most TV productions, there are "cut!"s, retakes, resets and all the fun that goes with that. It took about an hour to tape about ten seconds worth. :laughing: It was fun, though, and we received free admission to MK. We left our spots mid-morning to eat at CP and enjoy the park. It was NOT a madhouse!! In fact, most people were so interested in the parade (and stayed away assuming it was a madhouse), the rest of the park was really easy to tour.

We were also there during PW, and like others have said, we hardly noticed them. We were at YC and SoG, so we saw the occasional family that decided to upgrade, but nothing like the things I've read from those who've stayed in the values at that time.

We'll be there the same time this year. :banana::banana::banana: We haven't decided on the exact dates, but I can't waaaaait!!

[ppan77]

Thinking about week after Thanksgiving (Nov 29th) vs. week after parade (Dec 6th)?! Any thoughts/advice?? We don't want to be there for xmas parade taping!!!! WWYD??

[exwdwcm]

We are joing the Dec 4-11 club! Anyone else a little scared of Pop Warner?

So far no pin codes. I am hoping for a good 40% or even better the 7 for 4 deal they ran last year. I was hoping for SV/GV at the Contemporary, but I cannot get all of the dates. Right now I have two long weekends booked, but I am missing the Tues & Wed night in between. I may just book Poly for the week to "get it done". Also, we have not ruled our renting dvc points at BLT. No airline booked yet, but I am thinking about getting that ball rolling soon - we hope to fly on our Amex miles so I need to start figuring out how to redeem!Welcome to the 12/4 club! :rotfl::wizard:

Not scared of Pop at all. We went the first week of Dec back in 07, stayed at POR. I only saw POP kids twice during 9 days in the parks- once on the bus (we used our rental car mostly) and once at MK on space mtn queue- it was a bunch of little boys and the ride broke down just as we were about to board. These boys were so well behaved (especially given a long wait in queue when it broke down). We chatted with them quite a bit. Never saw or recognized any others in the parks.

Now we DID have issues at POR though- had to call security on loud cheerleaders running up and down the corridors at all hours of the night- their bus unloaded right outside our door at 11pm. it was nuts. Also saw bad behavior at the pool and the food court was crowded, but we managed. If you aren't staying at a value or the overflow mod , then you are good- they mostly affect those resorts (not the parks) in my experience.


We were in the audience in 2008, and it's NOT like a regular parade. Like most TV productions, there are "cut!"s, retakes, resets and all the fun that goes with that. It took about an hour to tape about ten seconds worth. :laughing: It was fun, though, and we received free admission to MK. We left our spots mid-morning to eat at CP and enjoy the park. It was NOT a madhouse!! In fact, most people were so interested in the parade (and stayed away assuming it was a madhouse), the rest of the park was really easy to tour.

We were also there during PW, and like others have said, we hardly noticed them. We were at YC and SoG, so we saw the occasional family that decided to upgrade, but nothing like the things I've read from those who've stayed in the values at that time.

We'll be there the same time this year. :banana::banana::banana: We haven't decided on the exact dates, but I can't waaaaait!!very interesting to know. I was wondering if the MK is empty that morning while everyone is doing the parade or if folks think they can just walk up and be in the taping so that increases crowds. good to know it wasn't really crowded. I still am not sure I want to try MK that day though- i assume like you, most doing the parade taping will stay that night and it will get crowded later on? We arrive that day, so i wasn't going to do MK until sunday, 12/5- do they still tape on sunday too? thanks for sharing great info! :thumbsup2

anyone doing MVMCP and if so, what date are you looking at? I think we are going to consider Thursday, 12/9. I have an itenerary already going, but i know i will change it a ton before then!

[PrincessTS]

Hello everyone! We will be there Dec. 4-12th and can't wait!:banana:

[gingerjohnjillian]

We are looking into going Dec 4th - 12th also. Can someone tell me what mod resorts Pop Warner stays at?
Ginger

[neld257]

We booked Fort Wilderness Cabins for November 28th - December 4th. It will be our second trip as a family - first was this same week in 2008 at CSR - and our first trip with my parents joining us. So excited to experience Christmas in Disney again!!

[neld257]

Thinking about week after Thanksgiving (Nov 29th) vs. week after parade (Dec 6th)?! Any thoughts/advice?? We don't want to be there for xmas parade taping!!!! WWYD??

We went the week after Thanksgiving in 2008 and just booked the same week for this year. We did not go to Magic Kingdom on the day of the parade taping so I cannot speak to that aspect of it, but this week was great! The weather was mid 70s all week, the wait times for most rides was non existent, and the Christmas decorations are all up during this week also. We rode several of the most popular rides in all 4 parks over and over again with no wait times. The crowd at Chef Mickey's was so low that we were visited by each character 3 or 4 times throughout our dinner. We are hoping for a similar crowd experience this year. I have heard that it slowly picks up each week leading up to Christmas.

[helenk]

We are looking into going Dec 4th - 12th also. Can someone tell me what mod resorts Pop Warner stays at?
Ginger

They generally stay at the POR and the POFQ

[helenk]

I'll be there 11/30-12/4 staying at the VWL, can't wait to see the Christmas decorations.
I am hoping that my son, daughter in law and grand-daughter will be joining me, if not it will be another solo trip.

[exwdwcm]

We are looking into going Dec 4th - 12th also. Can someone tell me what mod resorts Pop Warner stays at?
Ginger
in 2007, the overflow was POR. but i heard this past year- 2009 that they were considering some overflow to Coronado springs- not sure if that happened or not? I've never heard them ever mention CBR though- that might be a safe mod bet.

[exwdwcm]

Thinking about week after Thanksgiving (Nov 29th) vs. week after parade (Dec 6th)?! Any thoughts/advice?? We don't want to be there for xmas parade taping!!!! WWYD??The week after Thanksgiving is pretty good. I remember working thanksgiving week (a crazy amount of hours- it is so crowded), and the week after was like totally dead!

We just went the third week of December this past year- dec 10-20th, 2009. You can see my trip report below for details. We found crowds to be just fine- totally manageable with the right tactics (doing RD, EMH, FP, extra events etc.). It wasn't bad at all. The only time we saw it get bad was our last night, which is when folks were starting to trickle in for christmas week (sat, 12/20). but if i had the chance, i might pick the week after thanksgiving over the second/third week in dec. I think you might have much lower crowds then.

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

very interesting to know. I was wondering if the MK is empty that morning while everyone is doing the parade or if folks think they can just walk up and be in the taping so that increases crowds. good to know it wasn't really crowded. I still am not sure I want to try MK that day though- i assume like you, most doing the parade taping will stay that night and it will get crowded later on? We arrive that day, so i wasn't going to do MK until sunday, 12/5- do they still tape on sunday too? thanks for sharing great info! :thumbsup2

anyone doing MVMCP and if so, what date are you looking at? I think we are going to consider Thursday, 12/9. I have an itenerary already going, but i know i will change it a ton before then!

We left at 5:00 for a dinner ADR at Boma, so I don't know how the evening crowds were. By the time Miley Cyrus started performing, they were allowing any park goers to join in the taping area. It was that sparse!

I think they did end up taping on Sunday this past year due to weather.

We always try to hit the Tuesday parties. The closer to the weekend, the more crowded the parties (completely unofficial, unscientific theory). I just figure that locals and long weekenders who hit the parties are more likely to do so on the weekends.

[exwdwcm]

We left at 5:00 for a dinner ADR at Boma, so I don't know how the evening crowds were. By the time Miley Cyrus started performing, they were allowing any park goers to join in the taping area. It was that sparse!

I think they did end up taping on Sunday this past year due to weather.

We always try to hit the Tuesday parties. The closer to the weekend, the more crowded the parties (completely unofficial, unscientific theory). I just figure that locals and long weekenders who hit the parties are more likely to do so on the weekends.interesting. I think we will just play it safe and avoid the MK that afternoon/evening and give it a try on sunday. here's hoping for good weather so they don't have to tape on sunday too! lol

btw- your sig looks great on my screen! ;)

and i see you are in Norman- i have in laws up that way- my BIL lived there for a long time and just recently moved back to Dallas after the GM plant in OKC transferred him here.

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

interesting. I think we will just play it safe and avoid the MK that afternoon/evening and give it a try on sunday. here's hoping for good weather so they don't have to tape on sunday too! lol

btw- your sig looks great on my screen! ;)

and i see you are in Norman- i have in laws up that way- my BIL lived there for a long time and just recently moved back to Dallas after the GM plant in OKC transferred him here.

Haha! My signature is a hot mess on my work computer. :laughing:

We're staying at the Gaylord Texan for a few days during Spring Break. I was secretly booked at WDW, but I decided to cancel since we are also doing NC and NYC this year. Boo!!! I'm meeting up with another Dallas area DISer for lunch one day. We met at WDW last Spring Break and have kept in touch off the boards since. So fun!!

[Kelli Pooh]

Just booked today :cool1: Pop Century December 8-17, 2010!!!! Deluxe Dining to celebrate my 40th birthday!

[exwdwcm]

Haha! My signature is a hot mess on my work computer. :laughing:

We're staying at the Gaylord Texan for a few days during Spring Break. I was secretly booked at WDW, but I decided to cancel since we are also doing NC and NYC this year. Boo!!! I'm meeting up with another Dallas area DISer for lunch one day. We met at WDW last Spring Break and have kept in touch off the boards since. So fun!!Gaylord is so fun. I've done the one in Orlando and here in Dallas. The mall next door is fun too and has a rainforest cafe--which i am not a fan of the food, but reminds me of disney! lol. The Great Wolf Lodge is across the street too- did you check that out- they have an indoor water park that looks really fun.

Well if you are in town this way and want to meet up- just let me know. I've done a few meets locally, including one about 6 months again with another dis'er visiting from the midwest- i met her on the podcast board and most recently on the Dis unplugged dis-a-palooza and toy story private party! It is always fun meeting other Dis'ers!

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

Gaylord is so fun. I've done the one in Orlando and here in Dallas. The mall next door is fun too and has a rainforest cafe--which i am not a fan of the food, but reminds me of disney! lol. The Great Wolf Lodge is across the street too- did you check that out- they have an indoor water park that looks really fun.

Well if you are in town this way and want to meet up- just let me know. I've done a few meets locally, including one about 6 months again with another dis'er visiting from the midwest- i met her on the podcast board and most recently on the Dis unplugged dis-a-palooza and toy story private party! It is always fun meeting other Dis'ers!

We're often down in Dallas and know the shopping well...very well. ;):laughing: We're staying at Great Wolf in June for a short birthday trip for the kids' before going to NC in July. We're really excited!!! We just had some friends stay there this weekend, and they had a blast!!

I know we're going to have lunch at Twisted Root, but I'm not sure which day yet. I'll keep you posted. :thumbsup2

[lollisfamily6]

We will be there Nov. 29-Dec. 4 stayin at POP. Where did you get the pins to use for a percentage off?

[exwdwcm]

We will be there Nov. 29-Dec. 4 stayin at POP. Where did you get the pins to use for a percentage off?Pins are sent to you randomly by a postcard in the mail or by email. So you have to make sure you are registered with disney and their website so that you are in their database. Order the free trip planning DVD and maps too if you haven't- any chance to register/interact with their site is good. I found that we got a free dining pin last year after we ordered the maps online. Whether that triggered it or not, who knows. It was the first pin i ever got after travelling to disney since the 80s and being registered on their site for 5plus years.

There is no formula on who or how you get a pin, it is all totally random. It is non transferrable, so only the person who receives the pin can use it (for their family).

[lee_d]

My family received the
Save 20%* at Disney Value Resorts
Save 30%* at Disney Moderate Resorts
Save 40%* at Disney Deluxe Resorts

We are excited because it has the dates we are going covered (we are going 12-5 thru 12-12). The Pin is good for 11/28 thru 12/16, plus other date within this year.

We are planning on staying at the Wilderness Lodge!!

This will be the second time my wife and I have been(1997 Dixie landings), first time for the boys(6,2,).
I didn't do anything special to get it, just filled out the info on WDW website, saved a couple of itineraries, requested the DVD and made some maps. Next day Pin was in email with a welcome.
lee_d is online now Report Post

[annegirl]

We're not booked yet but we are planning on being there December 5-15th. Our first trip!! We will probably end up at Pop Century but hoping maybe we can swing POR. I got a code for free dining but it's only for counter service plan and only through August.. I'm hoping to get one for the main plan for Dec. or for the percentage of the hotel code.:cool1:

[mickeyluvncwgrl]

Walt Disney World here we come December 5-11 (but beware my father Richard Petty will be driving so i suggest you stay off the interstate that day or he might run you over!) We are staying at the Treehouse Villas! I can't wait!!!!:yay::goodvibes

[MamaJessie]

We are driving down to POR Dec 4 - 11! I am so excited!!!!!!!:cool1:
We went down for Halloween and were planning on making it an every other year tradition but between wanting to see the holiday decorations and Harry Potter opening we decided two years was too long!!!

We were going to use my SILs offsite timeshare but it would only be $350 cheaper than staying at POR with my PIN so.... POR it is!! :cool1:

[cantwait101]

November 27 to Dec 5 at the WL. Staying Concierge level. This will be our very first time at a deluxe resort!!! I hope it is everything they say it is! What a loooonnnnggg wait it is going to be for us..:worship:

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

Ok please ignore my ignorance.....what is the difference with the levels at some of the deluxe resorts....i keep seeing things like consierge level and club level.....whats up with this?!?!?!?!

[Lorilais_mommie]

My trip & AIR are book and paid for DEC7th - DEC 14th.
Now i hear that is Pop warner week.
I'm really worried b/c My DH & DD wanted to stay at ASM.
I hear stories of people who get woken up at 2am every night!!!

As anybody stay there during this time and been ok????

[Mom of a *Princess*]

We booked our first trip to WDW today:banana: We're staying at the Polynesian Dec. 27-Jan. 4. Hoping that we get one of those holiday pins I have read about!

Edited to say: Wow just realized its exactly 10 months away from today!

[taylor3297]

We booked our first trip to WDW today:banana: We're staying at the Polynesian Dec. 27-Jan. 4. Hoping that we get one of those holiday pins I have read about!

Edited to say: Wow just realized its exactly 10 months away from today!

From what I understand, pins aren't normally given for the time period you are going. The current pin offer ends on 12/16.

[lollisfamily6]

From what I understand, pins aren't normally given for the time period you are going. The current pin offer ends on 12/16.

I'm really hoping to get the pin that ends on the 16th.

[LexisAuntieLala]

We will be there at the Polynesian from 12/6-12/14!!

[taylor3297]

I'm really hoping to get the pin that ends on the 16th.

I had my fingers crossed hoping to get the pin. The other evening I went to the Disney website and ordered maps and two days later, I got the pin. When it asked whether we had set our date yet, I checked no. We had already booked the Poly in Dec but have considered changing it. So you might want to try that.

[momma2minnie]

We will be there at the Polynesian from 12/6-12/14!!

Maybe we'll see ya there! 9-15 for us!

Have a blast!

[exwdwcm]

My trip & AIR are book and paid for DEC7th - DEC 14th.
Now i hear that is Pop warner week.
I'm really worried b/c My DH & DD wanted to stay at ASM.
I hear stories of people who get woken up at 2am every night!!!

As anybody stay there during this time and been ok????
We were at POR in 2007 when it was an overflow hotel and it was BAD. i had zero bad experiences in the parks with POP. But we had one night at our hotel where the bus emptied right outside our door at 11pm at night. we had a sleeping toddler, so that was loud. Then the girls (this was teh cheerleaders, not football players) proceeded to play chase on all three floors, running up and down the corridors, yelling, screaming, giggling until 1am or later. We called security 3x on them. Apparently we were not the only ones. Security finally got them quiet. It was absolutely crazy that ngiht.

The other nights, we did not notice any extra noise. The food court was a LOT more crowded than normal, as was the pool area.

but I would not stay in the resort they are staying at if i could avoid it. If you can't, then you just go in with your eyes wide open, knowing it could be loud and crowded and just prepare to deal with it. i say a disney vacation with POP is better than none at all, right? :goodvibes

[Lorilais_mommie]

We were at POR in 2007 when it was an overflow hotel and it was BAD. i had zero bad experiences in the parks with POP. But we had one night at our hotel where the bus emptied right outside our door at 11pm at night. we had a sleeping toddler, so that was loud. Then the girls (this was teh cheerleaders, not football players) proceeded to play chase on all three floors, running up and down the corridors, yelling, screaming, giggling until 1am or later. We called security 3x on them. Apparently we were not the only ones. Security finally got them quiet. It was absolutely crazy that ngiht.

The other nights, we did not notice any extra noise. The food court was a LOT more crowded than normal, as was the pool area.

but I would not stay in the resort they are staying at if i could avoid it. If you can't, then you just go in with your eyes wide open, knowing it could be loud and crowded and just prepare to deal with it. i say a disney vacation with POP is better than none at all, right? :goodvibes


We are planning on upgrading if we can, waiting for free dinning!! Hoping for CBR
if they do not offer it we will be at ASMo :scared1: with PW!
We will be packing earplugs and sleeping meds just in case! :rolleyes1

Advice wanted!!! Post here!

[MrBurns]

First timer to WDW, have been to Disney Land 4 times (or 5?).

We've booked our plane tickets and we'll be there December 8-16th.
We would like to stay at WDW to take advantage of the After Hours but I don't know much abou the resorts there. Price wise, only the cheap ones fit our budget, maybe the Carribean resort too.

Reading reviews on Tripadvisor and such (I know, can't please everyone..) it seems that the Pop Century and the like are sometimes noisy and in need of renovations. Any comments on this?
Also, what would be the best time to book? Where do I get codes, if any and are there public buses that we can get on to go to Publix or other supermarkets or restaurants outside WDW?

Sorry for the threadjack, thanks to all.

[triciari]

We'll be there from Dec. 5-12 at BLT or 7-14 at VWL! Still waiting to see what pans out for us!!

[exwdwcm]

We are planning on upgrading if we can, waiting for free dinning!! Hoping for CBR
if they do not offer it we will be at ASMo :scared1: with PW!
We will be packing earplugs and sleeping meds just in case! :rolleyes1

Advice wanted!!! Post here!well that's the spirit! :thumbsup2

First timer to WDW, have been to Disney Land 4 times (or 5?).

We've booked our plane tickets and we'll be there December 8-16th.
We would like to stay at WDW to take advantage of the After Hours but I don't know much abou the resorts there. Price wise, only the cheap ones fit our budget, maybe the Carribean resort too.

Reading reviews on Tripadvisor and such (I know, can't please everyone..) it seems that the Pop Century and the like are sometimes noisy and in need of renovations. Any comments on this?
Also, what would be the best time to book? Where do I get codes, if any and are there public buses that we can get on to go to Publix or other supermarkets or restaurants outside WDW?

Sorry for the threadjack, thanks to all.The values (All star movies, sports, POP etc) will run typically $82 per night during that time of year. See here for pricing info http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/disney-rates-2010.htm

The moderates (Port Orleans French Qtr, Riverside, Carribean or Coronado Springs) will run average of $150-$170 a night.

Keep in mind this is with NO discounts and some discounts might become avaialble- like 20% off or free dining with booking. Right now there is a gift card special going on- where you can get a $750 gift card you use for shopping, eating etc. when you book a package (tickets/room).

i would recommend getting some quotes from dreams unlimited travel (sponsors/owners of this website) at www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com (http://www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com). They will keep an eye out for any and all discounts available for your budget and dates. I've been extremely happy with them in the past.

you can check here for other discounts you might be eligible for (military etc.). http://www.wdwinfo.com/discounts/discounts-resorts.htm#packages Otherwise, try dreamsunlimited, they'll do that work for you to get the best deal and they will contact you with any specials they find. as for the PIN codes people talk about, i would recommend you register with the disneyworld.com webiste, request the free vacation planning DVD and maps. then you will be in their database and you MIGHT get a pin code for great discounts later on. it is no guarantee as these pin codes are distributed at total random. but they can't send you one if you aren't in their database.

The value resorts are a bit smaller and can be noisier, because there tend to be more young children/young families staying there, since it fits their budget sometimes more. But it is disney- there are kids everywhere and with kids, come noise. :rotfl: We love the moderates, Port Orleans riverside is our favorite. You can check out all the resorts here on this site, including photos. Each resort has a food court, shopping and free bus transportation (or boats/monorails) to get to the parks.


there is not free transportation to grocery stores or such. The disney transportation only takes you from your resort to one of the four theme parks, 2 water parks or downtown disney. You can also get to the other disney hotels by first going to a park, then getting on a bus to another resort (there is no direct resort to resort buses).

They also provide DME- disney's magical express. This is a free shuttle from the airport to your disney hotel (and back again). They also transfer your luggage for free. And even print your boarding passes at your hotel prior to leaving. saves a ton of time.

however, no grocery stop. No transportation to restaurants outside of disney. they only provide the transproration within the disney resort area (they want to keep your money on site!). ;)

You can look into renting a car or using a grocery delivery service. We just used one on our last trip and had bottled water, cereal, milk and more delivered to our resort. the bellhop brought it right up to our room for us. no need for a grocery run. We love all the dining options on disney property- so many nice restaurants at Epcot world showcase and top dining choices for nice meals. Plus something to fit other budgets too- quick service dining etc.

I would recommend checking out the site here in more detail- check out the resort reviews here too- there are tons of people here with objective feedback that might be a better more detailed than tripadvisor is.
check out disney world resort reviews here
http://reviews.wdwinfo.com/index.php/cat/404

Hope that helps some!

[MrBurns]

Thank you very much! I will check out all the information you provided there.
So is there a public bus running through the property?

[exwdwcm]

Thank you very much! I will check out all the information you provided there.
So is there a public bus running through the property?Disney provides its own bus transportation throughout property. it is disney owned and run. They have tons of buses, most operating on an every 20 minute or quicker schedule. for example, someone waiting at the POP century resort for a bus might stand there for 10 minutes and see a MK bus, Epcot bus and DTD bus come by in that time period (or more). Plus there are the monorails and boats too that make it convenient to get around. Again, all operated by disney.

if you are staying at a disney hotel- you will find the transportation that disney provides works great. Most buses operate at least an hour or more before park opening and way past park closing to accomodate all guests.


There are a variety of other transportation around too- Mears shuttle, limos, taxis, various hotel shuttles (like Marriott etc.). Plus Orlando public transportation (lynx) does drop off at the TTC (WDW's ticket and transportation center) where you can take a disney bus, boat or monorail to the parks.

[MamaJessie]

It's official! I made my reservation just now and added a day (I'm sure I can talk hubby into it) so we're going December 4th - December 12th

:mickeyjumparty::hyper::woohoo::love::banana::cool 1:

[exwdwcm]

It's official! I made my reservation just now and added a day (I'm sure I can talk hubby into it) so we're going December 4th - December 12th

:mickeyjumparty::hyper::woohoo::love::banana::cool 1:woo hoo!! same time as us (but youa re a day longer!) :thumbsup2 Where are you staying?

Anyone booked airfare yet? I found a great direct flight on AA for $200 a person from DFW. I might book it in the next week! I've never seen it direct for that low ($250 is lowest i have seen on AA).

[MamaJessie]

woo hoo!! same time as us (but youa re a day longer!) :thumbsup2 Where are you staying?

Anyone booked airfare yet? I found a great direct flight on AA for $200 a person from DFW. I might book it in the next week! I've never seen it direct for that low ($250 is lowest i have seen on AA).

We're going to POR.

And we drive down so no airfare here.:drive:

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

We decided to drive too. We are in Va so its only around a 13 hour drive for us.....Last time we flew it was a TRAIN WRECK!!!!!!!!!! My kids love to fly but it just isnt worth it! I can't wait. We have 12 of us going so we are spliting into 2 vans and spliting the gas :cool1::cool1::cool1::cool1: We are planning on leaving around midnight and hoping for an early check in. We wont be doing a park the day we get there. Going to DTD for T-Rex and thats it! We are all gonna need the rest! 270 days to go! The count down is GRUELING :scared1::scared1: My kids are waiting for day 180 so we can book our ARDs and make our Mickey countdown paper chain!

[MamaJessie]

Will you decorate your room for the holidays? I bought a bunch of stuff on Christmas clearance and packed a bag yesterday of Christmas stuff specifically for our trip, between the ride down, the room and for our stay it totally fills the little buzz lightyear luggage bag :eek: :rotfl:

[taylor3297]

Will you decorate your room for the holidays? I bought a bunch of stuff on Christmas clearance and packed a bag yesterday of Christmas stuff specifically for our trip, between the ride down, the room and for our stay it totally fills the little buzz lightyear luggage bag :eek: :rotfl:

We are flying down so I am not going to decorate our room for the holidays. Also, I don't want to have to worry about taking the time to decorate then take it all down. Now maybe the Disney Florist will do a little decorating for us?:rolleyes1

[thechesters420]

Comtemporary 12/11-17 then the AKL 12/17-12/20...thanks to a pin code!!

[OregonGirl]

Hi ya'll -

The adults/solo travelers forum has started a December 2010 roll call, and we are also trying to organize some meet-ups.

If you're interested (especially if you are single or traveling solo) here is the link:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2376200

:) - Carey

[jewels1916]

Woohoo! My best friends and I just booked! The three of us are going December 9-13th, staying at Coronado Springs! :)

[taylor3297]

Woohoo! My best friends and I just booked! The three of us are going December 9-13th, staying at Coronado Springs! :)

I hope y'all have a blast!

[djgeffers1]

Just booked 2 rooms for 3 adults 4 kids, driving down from WI checking in Nov 28th thru Dec 4th at the POP, hopefully we will meet some other Diser's.:cheer2:

[exwdwcm]

Will you decorate your room for the holidays? I bought a bunch of stuff on Christmas clearance and packed a bag yesterday of Christmas stuff specifically for our trip, between the ride down, the room and for our stay it totally fills the little buzz lightyear luggage bag :eek: :rotfl:We did this on our 2009 Dec trip- we bought stuff after christmas on clearance and we did put lights on our balcony at WL and had a mini tree and oranments. it was fun, but it wasn't worth the hassle in the end for us. so we won't do it again. If i was staying on Christmas day itself, i might, but we aren't. I shipped a box down of stuff and it was just too much work and space to deal with when it was said and done. :wizard:

lots of folks driving down i see!

[LexisAuntieLala]

Maybe we'll see ya there! 9-15 for us!

Have a blast!

You too! We will be the ones with the big smiles!!

[AmberHeartsDisney]

I'll be going in Dec too!!

[plutotek]

DW and myself will be making our first WDW Dec this year. Just haven't decided between onsite/offsite. DDP will probably be the deciding factor for that.

[disneybarbie]

Hi everyone! It's March.. only 9 months to go!! :woohoo:

Just wondering if anyone knows much about Jet Blue airlines... I'd like to book a flight with them from JFK to MCO - but the website only goes to October 31st? :confused3 ... i want to get it booked! lol.

3 months til ADR day... does anyone have their list ready yet?! :yay:

Emma princess: x

[taylor3297]

Hi everyone! It's March.. only 9 months to go!! :woohoo:

Just wondering if anyone knows much about Jet Blue airlines... I'd like to book a flight with them from JFK to MCO - but the website only goes to October 31st? :confused3 ... i want to get it booked! lol.

3 months til ADR day... does anyone have their list ready yet?! :yay:

Emma princess: x

Jet Blue is a great airline

I only have two restaurants picked out; Biergarten and Chef Mickey's.

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

Hi everyone! It's March.. only 9 months to go!! :woohoo:

3 months til ADR day... does anyone have their list ready yet?! :yay:

Emma princess: x

We have a tentative list so far.....We have to wait for the Fantasmic schedule to be posted to pin it down though. So far we know we are doing
~T-Rex cafe the day we arrive since we wont go into the park
~Coral Reef
~Sci-Fi
~a character breakfast, not sure which one yet
and once everyone figures out where they want to eat we are going to pick from a hat to finish our list. There will be 12 of us so we want to be fair with our decisions. We know the days we will all be together for sure so we are really trying to pin those down. There are 3 days when we figure we will split up into "family" groups so we can all decide for ourselves! I just keep getting more and more excited.

[exwdwcm]

Hi everyone! It's March.. only 9 months to go!! :woohoo:

Just wondering if anyone knows much about Jet Blue airlines... I'd like to book a flight with them from JFK to MCO - but the website only goes to October 31st? :confused3 ... i want to get it booked! lol.

3 months til ADR day... does anyone have their list ready yet?! :yay:

Emma princess: xI've never flown Jet Blue, but heard awesome things about them. Maybe they are like southwest and only do 6 months in advance. YOu can't see a schedule for SW except 6 months out.

for meals- yes, i am a planning fool! so I have our itenerary already planned out, although I know it will change.

Since we are staying in a 1bedroom at BLT with a kitchen, we will try and do some meals in the room to save $$ (on DVC, so no free dining option like previous trips).


Crystal Palace breakfast- 2.5yo son loves Pooh bear and asks everyday when he can 'go eat with pooh bear' again. i've lost count- we do this breakfast every single trip!
chef Mickey's breakfast- so he can see MIckey- we did dinner in December and i was disappointed (not my first time there). so trying breakfast again this time instead.
Le Cellier - just a favorite! can't beat the soup and filet! will be our 5th time i think.
Teppan Endo- will be a first for us, i hear such good things on it
O'hana- one of our favorites and Ds loved it too. will be our third time here.
debating on trying JIKO if budget allows! I've been dying to try it and really need to stretch out to some new places.
We just did Coral Reef, Sci Fi, 50s Prime Time, Le Cellier, Ohana, Chef MIckey's, Crystal Palace, Norway Princess breakfast, 1900 Park Fare, HDD, Shula's in December. Only Coral Reef and Shula's were new for us. We keep eating at the same old places. :confused3:rotfl:

any good recommendations for quick service? i thnk we might try Yak and Yeti quick service.


We have a tentative list so far.....We have to wait for the Fantasmic schedule to be posted to pin it down though. So far we know we are doing
~T-Rex cafe the day we arrive since we wont go into the park
~Coral Reef
~Sci-Fi
~a character breakfast, not sure which one yet
and once everyone figures out where they want to eat we are going to pick from a hat to finish our list. There will be 12 of us so we want to be fair with our decisions. We know the days we will all be together for sure so we are really trying to pin those down. There are 3 days when we figure we will split up into "family" groups so we can all decide for ourselves! I just keep getting more and more excited.We had a party of 14 for our Dec trip (see trip report below, i am almost finished with it!). I was surprised at how well they accomodated us in all the restaurants. We ate at coral Reef and they sat us in the back along hte wall (not best view, but still nice)- they got almost 10 of us in a rounded booth and then 4 at the table across from us, so we were still almost all together.

At Sci Fi, of course we had to split into separate cars, but they do have plain tables in the back too, but what's the fun in sitting at a table when you can eat in a car? lol

Everywhere else we ate, they got us at one table- CP, 50s, Le Cellier (we had 9 that night), Shula's, etc.

[sjs314]

Hi everyone! It's March.. only 9 months to go!! :woohoo:

Just wondering if anyone knows much about Jet Blue airlines... I'd like to book a flight with them from JFK to MCO - but the website only goes to October 31st? :confused3 ... i want to get it booked! lol.

3 months til ADR day... does anyone have their list ready yet?! :yay:

Emma princess: x

I am waiting on Jet Blues schedule to come out also, flying from west chester to orlando. Have flown JFK to MCO and they are a great airline with reasonable prices. My dil has used them at least 3x that I know of and swears by them. Use to fly Delta since from BDL in Ct they are the only non stop but their prices are higher.

Have some tentitive plans of ADR's but nothing set in stone yet, traveling with my oldest son and his wife so we all need to sit down and see who wants to do what and when.

[exwdwcm]

happy monday all! i think some of us are now under 9 months out!

[Mrs. Charming]

happy monday all! i think some of us are now under 9 months out!

:banana: YAYYYYYY!! :banana: Happy Monday!

[jewels1916]

Hi everyone! It's March.. only 9 months to go!! :woohoo:

Just wondering if anyone knows much about Jet Blue airlines... I'd like to book a flight with them from JFK to MCO - but the website only goes to October 31st? :confused3 ... i want to get it booked! lol.

3 months til ADR day... does anyone have their list ready yet?! :yay:

Emma princess: x

Choosing our ADRs has been so challenging, because I am going with my two best friends, Kelly, who is a Disney veteran like me, and then Lacy who has NEVER BEEN! Kelly and I of course have our favorites, and so we are having long conversations about which ones we want to take Lacy to in the limited time we have there (Dec. 9-13). Plus, it's going to be Lacy's birthday! I'd welcome any suggestions! :)

[gingerjohnjillian]

Count us in We are booked for December 4th thru 12th at Coronado Spring It will be me my DH and our DD 8!

[neld257]

:cool1: I received the email on Friday with my 20, 30 40 pin code!! What's even better is when the CM plugged my pin code into the computer it gave me 40% off of the cabins at FW!!! I was only expecting 30% so this was a great surprise! So our original room price went from 1,822 down to 1,093!!:cool1:

[kittycat9]

We're booked for AKL CL, 11/28-12/4. If we get a pin code, we'll add a couple days on the front end. Either way, We're Going to Disney World!!! We're going to be celebrating my son's 7th birthday (a bit early) who always gets the short end of the stick, since it's 4 days after Christmas. I can't wait - what a great year we have a head of us, and what a great birthday present for him.

Now, everyone sprinkle a little pixie dust this way... Pin Codes for Kyle's Birthday!!! Or at least a really great giraffe hanging out by his window one morning while we're there :thumbsup2

[heaven2dc]

:cool1: I received the email on Friday with my 20, 30 40 pin code!! What's even better is when the CM plugged my pin code into the computer it gave me 40% off of the cabins at FW!!! I was only expecting 30% so this was a great surprise! So our original room price went from 1,822 down to 1,093!!:cool1:

Wow - that is quite a savings! Congrats!!

We're booked for AKL CL, 11/28-12/4. If we get a pin code, we'll add a couple days on the front end. Either way, We're Going to Disney World!!! We're going to be celebrating my son's 7th birthday (a bit early) who always gets the short end of the stick, since it's 4 days after Christmas. I can't wait - what a great year we have a head of us, and what a great birthday present for him.

Now, everyone sprinkle a little pixie dust this way... Pin Codes for Kyle's Birthday!!! Or at least a really great giraffe hanging out by his window one morning while we're there :thumbsup2

pixiedust:pixiedust:pixiedust: Lots coming your way!! We will be at BWV arriving on 11/28/10 & supposed to be leaving 12/3/10 but I'm trying to figure in a Fri & Sat night stay at the back end of our trip either by getting a Pin code for those 2 nights at CSR or renting points at AKL.

[exwdwcm]

Choosing our ADRs has been so challenging, because I am going with my two best friends, Kelly, who is a Disney veteran like me, and then Lacy who has NEVER BEEN! Kelly and I of course have our favorites, and so we are having long conversations about which ones we want to take Lacy to in the limited time we have there (Dec. 9-13). Plus, it's going to be Lacy's birthday! I'd welcome any suggestions! :)how about California Grill? take in WISHES from up there too? :thumbsup2 If you ladies are into wine, they have a great wine selection too and the view can't be beat.

:cool1: I received the email on Friday with my 20, 30 40 pin code!! What's even better is when the CM plugged my pin code into the computer it gave me 40% off of the cabins at FW!!! I was only expecting 30% so this was a great surprise! So our original room price went from 1,822 down to 1,093!!:cool1:YEAH- congrats! We really enjoyed the FW cabins when we stayed in them. what a deal- more spending money, right? :wizard:

We're booked for AKL CL, 11/28-12/4. If we get a pin code, we'll add a couple days on the front end. Either way, We're Going to Disney World!!! We're going to be celebrating my son's 7th birthday (a bit early) who always gets the short end of the stick, since it's 4 days after Christmas. I can't wait - what a great year we have a head of us, and what a great birthday present for him.

Now, everyone sprinkle a little pixie dust this way... Pin Codes for Kyle's Birthday!!! Or at least a really great giraffe hanging out by his window one morning while we're there :thumbsup2CL, how fun!!! here's wishing for pin codes!!

So is anyone going to visit Universal to see Harry Potter? I am debating. I've done Universal before, both coasts, but not Islands of Adventure. DH isn't a thrill guy and we will have our DS3 with us and my in laws. The only thing i would really want to see is HP, since it opens this spring/summer. But not sure i want to take away a day from WDW, we are already struggling to fit it all in and have enough down time as it is.

[annegirl]

We booked this morning!! We'll be at Pop December 5th through December 15th. It's my husband and I, our daughters (one turning 5 while we are there and one turning one right before we go) and my parents. First visit for all but DH who's only visit was 20 years ago when he was a kid.
We're planning on going to Islands of Adventure just for Harry Potter as well. We're still just trying to figure out the best way to get there.

[kittycat9]

Wow - that is quite a savings! Congrats!!



pixiedust:pixiedust:pixiedust: Lots coming your way!! We will be at BWV arriving on 11/28/10 & supposed to be leaving 12/3/10 but I'm trying to figure in a Fri & Sat night stay at the back end of our trip either by getting a Pin code for those 2 nights at CSR or renting points at AKL.

Our pixiedust arrived, even if it was due to our own oversight - so I have to share. We originally were looking at CR, and had a specific $$ in mind. We booked AKL, much better savings - but somehow I still had it in my head it was more than it was. I know - CRAZY!!!! (All caps necessary). Our packet arrived today in the mail from AAA with our confirmation, etc. I was like, Hmm, this can't be right - called DH - he's like no way. Had him check my Email. Yep, it was right. So we just got to add our two days on the front end. They're premium days since it's the end of Turkey Day week, so they cost more - but it still ends up being less. What a nice surprise. Happy Birthday Kyle!!! We're planning on taking him to the Pirate Cruise as a special surprise on one of the days. He's going to freak!!!

[kittycat9]

how about California Grill? take in WISHES from up there too? :thumbsup2 If you ladies are into wine, they have a great wine selection too and the view can't be beat.

YEAH- congrats! We really enjoyed the FW cabins when we stayed in them. what a deal- more spending money, right? :wizard:

CL, how fun!!! here's wishing for pin codes!!

So is anyone going to visit Universal to see Harry Potter? I am debating. I've done Universal before, both coasts, but not Islands of Adventure. DH isn't a thrill guy and we will have our DS3 with us and my in laws. The only thing i would really want to see is HP, since it opens this spring/summer. But not sure i want to take away a day from WDW, we are already struggling to fit it all in and have enough down time as it is.

We really want to go see HP - my son loves him, but he's still too young for some of the rides. And I know my littlest one is. We're going to hold off a few more years on that one. Then come back to Disney when the new Fantasyland is opened, do a few days there - and a few at Universal, then hit the beach maybe. We only go to Florida every couple of years. I wish it was more, but there are too many other places in the country to see and not enough money in the piggy bank to see them all.

[rastahomie]

Mrs. Homie and I are going Dec 1st through 11th. We're taking my little sister along (she's never been). We're in our late 30's, Sis is 23. We're going on a huge group trip with two other couples and two other singles joining us; 9 people total.

We were originally all going to stay at CBR, but it looks like money is tight for some of us, so we're all thinking about staying at Scopa Towers instead. We haven't decided yet.

[exwdwcm]

Our pixiedust arrived, even if it was due to our own oversight - so I have to share. We originally were looking at CR, and had a specific $$ in mind. We booked AKL, much better savings - but somehow I still had it in my head it was more than it was. I know - CRAZY!!!! (All caps necessary). Our packet arrived today in the mail from AAA with our confirmation, etc. I was like, Hmm, this can't be right - called DH - he's like no way. Had him check my Email. Yep, it was right. So we just got to add our two days on the front end. They're premium days since it's the end of Turkey Day week, so they cost more - but it still ends up being less. What a nice surprise. Happy Birthday Kyle!!! We're planning on taking him to the Pirate Cruise as a special surprise on one of the days. He's going to freak!!!what great news! :cheer2::cheer2:

We really want to go see HP - my son loves him, but he's still too young for some of the rides. And I know my littlest one is. We're going to hold off a few more years on that one. Then come back to Disney when the new Fantasyland is opened, do a few days there - and a few at Universal, then hit the beach maybe. We only go to Florida every couple of years. I wish it was more, but there are too many other places in the country to see and not enough money in the piggy bank to see them all.Yeah, I might just pass on it this year, i konw crowds will be higher this first year out anyhow. Maybe wait for a few years down the road. We are DVC, so we will likely be back every year anyhow. I should probably enjoy more time around the kid stuff while our son is still little enough to love it.

[MamaJessie]

I am VERY excited to go to the Harry Potter park!! We skipped Universal last time we went and are ready to go this time, although I still consider it a Disney vacation, not a Florida vacation.

I just started a second bag of vacation odds and ends. I am practically organized (if only housework got me this excited, I have such potential apparently)

[mjbradeis]

Super stoked that we booked this week for our ANNUAL trip to the house of mouse! We are staying at POP again 12/11-12/18!!! :banana:

[rastahomie]

Super stoked that we booked this week for our ANNUAL trip to the house of mouse! We are staying at POP again 12/11-12/18!!! :banana:

You'll be checking into Pop the day I check out of Pop. We'll leave the room looking nice for you! :thumbsup2

[LoveBeingSAHM]

We just got back from a Disney trip and are planning another for the end of Nov/first of Dec. We really want to see all the Christmas decorations and such. :santa: We had planned to be there Dec 4th - 11th but we want to stay at ASMu in a Family suite so we had to alter our dates since Pop Warner will be there - I have read too many things about them that I will not even take a chance.:scared1:

It will be myself, DH, DS (8), DS (3) and MIL.

Now I am just waiting to see if I get a pin - I hope so since we have been 3 times in the last 9 months so far. Could really use some PIXIE DUST!!!:wizard:

[exwdwcm]

You'll be checking into Pop the day I check out of Pop. We'll leave the room looking nice for you! :thumbsup2LOL! :thumbsup2

We just got back from a Disney trip and are planning another for the end of Nov/first of Dec. We really want to see all the Christmas decorations and such. :santa: We had planned to be there Dec 4th - 11th but we want to stay at ASMu in a Family suite so we had to alter our dates since Pop Warner will be there - I have read too many things about them that I will not even take a chance.:scared1:

It will be myself, DH, DS (8), DS (3) and MIL.

Now I am just waiting to see if I get a pin - I hope so since we have been 3 times in the last 9 months so far. Could really use some PIXIE DUST!!!:wizard:here's wishing you lots of pixie dust for PIN!

[lauren_elizabeth]

YAAAAAAAAAY! :banana:

We'll be there December 11-18 at VWL!

Absolutely LOVE Christmas season at Disney! :santa:

[tink1969]

November 29th - December 8th. Does that count?

[heaven2dc]

November 29th - December 8th. Does that count?

Does for me (we'll be there November 28 - December 3rd) :thumbsup2 Where are you staying? We will be at BWV with a boardwalk view (2-bedroom villa and 2 studios - I am SO excited!)

[kittycat9]

November 29th - December 8th. Does that count?

Does for me (we'll be there November 28 - December 3rd) :thumbsup2 Where are you staying? We will be at BWV with a boardwalk view (2-bedroom villa and 2 studios - I am SO excited!)

Remember your Alien Green Mickey Tag - maybe we'll all run in to each other :banana:

[Stepharia]

We are booked Dec. 11-20th at ASMo. Really hoping for some pixie dust :tink: and a pin code or something!!! Planning on upgrading to APs so even an AP rate would be great!!!

[Katie & Glen]

Booked 12/9-12/16 at AKL and just booked air fare too! :banana::banana:

[heaven2dc]

Remember your Alien Green Mickey Tag - maybe we'll all run in to each other :banana:

Where do I get one?!!

[lauren_elizabeth]

Where do I get one?!!


The paint section at Home Depot.

[Pyrate_Pryncess]

One step closer to the Mouse....Made a payment today! I've decided that since we get paid on the 1st and the 15th, (Military) that on payday I would check the bank and whatever rolled over from the last paycheck, that is what I would pay to Disney! This time it was $240!!!!! Thats quite an accomplishment for us, we are the check floaters 2 days before payday!!!!!!!! So having anything left over is HUGE for us! I plan on being paid off by August. That way the last few months, I can save everything for transportation and souvies!!! We are driving and splitting the cost ( We just bought a van and part of my arguement was that my parents would split the gas on the Disney trip...I like to think that it worked). We are DDP so no matter if there is a pin or not, our food is paid!
I CAN'T frickin wait!!!!

[soontobewed07]

Just booked bounceback at Poly for December 11th to the 19th and really scared about the weather. We just had the coldest week we have ever had there and I was hoping it would still be in the high 70's low 80's but from what everyone says on this thread it's not looking good.

[LovinmyDisneylife]

DH, DSis and myself will be there December 4th-9th at Kidani Village at AKL. Ending the vaca with a cruise on the Disney Wonder December 9th-12th. So excited! :woohoo:

[Vickis3js]

So excited I am going to be adding a day to my vacation and I just waitlisted for AKV club level 1bdroom. If that doesn;t coime through we might try for a 2bedroom at Bay lake towers. So now we will be there Dec 18-26. I love being at WDW for Christmas.

[rastahomie]

Just booked bounceback at Poly for December 11th to the 19th and really scared about the weather. We just had the coldest week we have ever had there and I was hoping it would still be in the high 70's low 80's but from what everyone says on this thread it's not looking good.

I wouldn't worry about the weather. Because of El Niño everything is messed up this year. I've spoken to a couple of Orlando locals on another message board and they've assured me that, in a general sense, you're not in any real danger of cold weather until January.

[Vickis3js]

As far as the weather goes in Dec you never know. In 08 it was in the 70-80s with one day where it was cooler and in the 60s. This past Dec it was much colder. I think we had only one day where it hit 70. There were days that never made it to 60 and mornings were in the 30s. But we bundled up and headed out and had a great time. With FL weather you never know what you will get.

[exwdwcm]

I wouldn't worry about the weather. Because of El Niño everything is messed up this year. I've spoken to a couple of Orlando locals on another message board and they've assured me that, in a general sense, you're not in any real danger of cold weather until January.

As far as the weather goes in Dec you never know. In 08 it was in the 70-80s with one day where it was cooler and in the 60s. This past Dec it was much colder. I think we had only one day where it hit 70. There were days that never made it to 60 and mornings were in the 30s. But we bundled up and headed out and had a great time. With FL weather you never know what you will get.

Yeah, you never know. But in our experience, it's been fairly mild. We've been the first week of December and only had one really cold night- which happened to be our MVMCP night, we had on gloves, scarves and hats, it was that cold. The rest of the time was shorts during the day, jeans/sweatshirt at night. Rained a few times.

This last trip was third week of December (10th-20th) and it was pretty mild most of the time. rained only one day (18th). It did get cold the night (and really windy) we had the WISHES dessert party. We weren't prepared for it either. The poor table behind us asked if we had any extra coats or jackets they could borrow for their kids. we didn't. otherwise, we were able to swim during the day and shorts/capris during the day.

i typically carry a jacket or hoodie with me everywhere, that way, i am prepared, even in some restaurants, it gets cold!

i'll take a bit of chill though over the august humidity anyday. and heck, i am from dallas and used to some humidity and heat. but that is miserable. ;)

[soontobewed07]

That weather sounds a little better :cool1: I would like to be able to swim more this trip we only were able to swim once. :headache:

Any suggestions on anything special to book plan look forward to? I was planning on hiring KNO so DH and I can go see the Candlelight processional, but DH said he doesn't want to go now so I am thinking about doing it alone. Is it worth it?

[Fantasmic23]

November 28 - December 4 at POP. Our first time (and I'm sure not the last) staying on WDW property!! :banana:

We returned from WDW in mid-February (our 2nd time there) and it was on this trip that DH caught the Disney Fever that the kids and I have had for years now.

We always have driven to WDW and on the long trip back home, DH spoke those dreaded words: "Well, I don't know when we'll be able to come back. Maybe in 2012." Great. According to every show on the Discovery Channel, that's the year it supposedly all ends. :scared1:

But anyway ... Last week we visited with some friends we hadn't seen in awhile. These were the same friends we (years ago) privately made fun of because they were sooo into Disney. We even called them The Disneys (clever name, I know). Yep, DH and I just didn't GET IT back then. Anyway, we told The Disneys how much fun we had on our trip, they told us about their past trips to WDW ... It was one big Disney Fest. Then, Mrs. Disney said, "You guys should really see Disney World at Christmas." :idea:

DH booked our trip on Monday. :banana: We were giggling and jumping up and down like loons when the CM over the phone wished him a "magical day".

Of course, November 28 seems like an eternity away but the Disney prepping and planning is in full swing. I mean, we are really nerding-out over here. I'm making tee-shirts for the kids (don't get me started about the lack of Pluto merchandise in the parks), I bought some Disney songs off of iTunes, DH bought some DW guide (Birnbaum's 2010) , I just picked up Mousejunkies, etc., etc.

[MamaJessie]

We returned from WDW in mid-February (our 2nd time there) and it was on this trip that DH caught the Disney Fever that the kids and I have had for years now. We always have driven to WDW and on the long trip back home, DH spoke those dreaded words: "Well, I don't know when we'll be able to come back. Maybe in 2012." mas." :idea:

I mean, we are really nerding-out over here. I'm making tee-shirts for the kids (don't get me started about the lack of Pluto merchandise in the parks), I bought some Disney songs off of iTunes, DH bought some DW guide (Birnbaum's 2010) , I just picked up Mousejunkies, etc., etc.

Dh caught the bug in October, it was our second trip too. Maybe 2x is a charm for the men folk.

The ride home always seems so LONG and we also spent the time trying to figure out how quickly we could get back :laughing:

I love that you said you're "nerding out" I told someone I am a nerd for Disney the other day. I've even started packing :rotfl:

[Fantasmic23]

Dh caught the bug in October, it was our second trip too. Maybe 2x is a charm for the men folk.

The ride home always seems so LONG and we also spent the time trying to figure out how quickly we could get back :laughing:

I love that you said you're "nerding out" I told someone I am a nerd for Disney the other day. I've even started packing :rotfl:

Just noticed that you are from CT. Me, too! You make the drive, too? Other people think that DH and I are NUTS, but we both have issues when it comes to flying.

[Vickis3js]

Isn't it awesome when DH's catch the bug. I've always loved WDW. My parents took us every other year for a bit and I loved going. DH had never been when he and I went in 2002 when we were having some marital problems and even then we only did MK for one day. So when we went in 08 with the kids DH thought it would be a one time thing. Well I had so much fun planning and getting it organized I knew before we left I wanted it to be yearly. Well the kids had a blast and wanted to go again on day one of the trip. DH agreed but said it was more for the kids. We bought DVC and he was its for the kids its for the kids. Well now he wants to go every year just him and I for our anniversary and actually did an add on with DVC so we can go more then once a year.

Now he totally shares in the excitement. He even told me what kind of shirt he wants me to make him when we go in Dec.

[exwdwcm]

That weather sounds a little better :cool1: I would like to be able to swim more this trip we only were able to swim once. :headache:

Any suggestions on anything special to book plan look forward to? I was planning on hiring KNO so DH and I can go see the Candlelight processional, but DH said he doesn't want to go now so I am thinking about doing it alone. Is it worth it?The Candlelight processional is so beautiful. If you want to do it, maybe do it alone. YOu would really enjoy it!!! book the dinner package if you want a guaranteed seat. Or you can always just stand sort of in the back of the theatre area- near the american adventure. while you can't see great, you can still hear the amazing music. We stopped by and just listened for a bit as we strolled by. We didn't do it this year as we had too many antzy toddlers with us. oh and btw- we LOVED KNO! booked them twice on our trip in fact!

Don't miss the Osborne lights either at HS. amazing!!! our son loved the fake snow falling. I like going right before they close, the crowds are not as bad then. The crowds are very heavy right when they turn on the lights at dusk each night.

and we enjoy MVMCP, but not everyone wants to dish out the extra cash for it. Of course checking out all the decor at the hotels is a must. Wilderness Lodge is gorgeous! We always see the gingerbread house at the GF too. Boardwalk/Y&BC have some fun decor too!

November 28 - December 4 at POP. Our first time (and I'm sure not the last) staying on WDW property!! :banana:

We returned from WDW in mid-February (our 2nd time there) and it was on this trip that DH caught the Disney Fever that the kids and I have had for years now.

We always have driven to WDW and on the long trip back home, DH spoke those dreaded words: "Well, I don't know when we'll be able to come back. Maybe in 2012." Great. According to every show on the Discovery Channel, that's the year it supposedly all ends. :scared1:

But anyway ... Last week we visited with some friends we hadn't seen in awhile. These were the same friends we (years ago) privately made fun of because they were sooo into Disney. We even called them The Disneys (clever name, I know). Yep, DH and I just didn't GET IT back then. Anyway, we told The Disneys how much fun we had on our trip, they told us about their past trips to WDW ... It was one big Disney Fest. Then, Mrs. Disney said, "You guys should really see Disney World at Christmas." :idea:

DH booked our trip on Monday. :banana: We were giggling and jumping up and down like loons when the CM over the phone wished him a "magical day".

Of course, November 28 seems like an eternity away but the Disney prepping and planning is in full swing. I mean, we are really nerding-out over here. I'm making tee-shirts for the kids (don't get me started about the lack of Pluto merchandise in the parks), I bought some Disney songs off of iTunes, DH bought some DW guide (Birnbaum's 2010) , I just picked up Mousejunkies, etc., etc.Congrats!!!!! lol at nerding out! that is part of the fun! So glad DH 'caved' and booked something sooner!!!

Dh caught the bug in October, it was our second trip too. Maybe 2x is a charm for the men folk.

The ride home always seems so LONG and we also spent the time trying to figure out how quickly we could get back :laughing:

I love that you said you're "nerding out" I told someone I am a nerd for Disney the other day. I've even started packing :rotfl:YES, it is so great when the other half finally is awakened to the disney bug!! i never thought my DH would even care to go every few years, now we own DVC!!! not in my wildest dreams. but i couldn't be more thankful that he saw the magic. :wizard:

[soontobewed07]

Just noticed that you are from CT. Me, too! You make the drive, too? Other people think that DH and I are NUTS, but we both have issues when it comes to flying.

We are from MA and we make the drive too. It was so much cheaper then flying for us this year and renting a car. We saved over $500 and that is just for the 3 of us.

[exwdwcm]

Just noticed that you are from CT. Me, too! You make the drive, too? Other people think that DH and I are NUTS, but we both have issues when it comes to flying.
i don't think it is nuts at all. We just don't have the extra time to spend driving these days, so we fly and living right next to DFW airport gives us lots of choices, flexibility and sometimes great prices. But we did drive growing up from Dallas- we would stop overnight somewhere. road trips are always fun!:thumbsup2

[MamaJessie]

Just noticed that you are from CT. Me, too! You make the drive, too? Other people think that DH and I are NUTS, but we both have issues when it comes to flying.

:wave2: Hello fellow nutmegger!

I have only flown once in my life, when I was nine months old and we went to Disney. I don't necessarily have issues with flying, except paying for all the kids to fly. :scared1: Holy smokes that's expensive. Some people think we are crazy to drive but it's really not bad. We drive straight through too. But it works for us so why not? I actually like the ride for the most part. :drive:

soontobewed07 - I agree completely. I tell people how much money I save and it helps justify another trip (anything to justify another trip.... ;) )

[rastahomie]

There is no way I'll ever drive to WDW. At least, not from where I live now (Springfield, Illinois). I did that drive a zillion times when I was a kid, and it was murder :eek: . Sixteen hours in a car = blergh.

Of course, I'm a Type-A personality and can't sit still, so maybe that has something to do with it. I get bored to tears when we drive to Mrs. Homie's mom's house, and it's only four hours away. Hee hee.

Anyway, we fly every time we go to WDW. No questions asked. :woohoo:

[heaven2dc]

November 28 - December 4 at POP. Our first time (and I'm sure not the last) staying on WDW property!! :banana:

We returned from WDW in mid-February (our 2nd time there) and it was on this trip that DH caught the Disney Fever that the kids and I have had for years now.

We always have driven to WDW and on the long trip back home, DH spoke those dreaded words: "Well, I don't know when we'll be able to come back. Maybe in 2012." Great. According to every show on the Discovery Channel, that's the year it supposedly all ends. :scared1:

But anyway ... Last week we visited with some friends we hadn't seen in awhile. These were the same friends we (years ago) privately made fun of because they were sooo into Disney. We even called them The Disneys (clever name, I know). Yep, DH and I just didn't GET IT back then. Anyway, we told The Disneys how much fun we had on our trip, they told us about their past trips to WDW ... It was one big Disney Fest. Then, Mrs. Disney said, "You guys should really see Disney World at Christmas." :idea:

DH booked our trip on Monday. :banana: We were giggling and jumping up and down like loons when the CM over the phone wished him a "magical day".

Of course, November 28 seems like an eternity away but the Disney prepping and planning is in full swing. I mean, we are really nerding-out over here. I'm making tee-shirts for the kids (don't get me started about the lack of Pluto merchandise in the parks), I bought some Disney songs off of iTunes, DH bought some DW guide (Birnbaum's 2010) , I just picked up Mousejunkies, etc., etc.

Hurray - you will be there the same time we will (we are staying at BWV tho)! I booked our trip 11 mos in advance cuz we rented points and I'm so glad to finally see 8 mos 5 days show up on my counter :woohoo: I think I'm the only one who has caught the Disney bug in our household - my kids haven't been since 1997 (except my DS32 who has been 3 other times but last visit was in 2000). My youngest 2 sons have never gone so I'm so excited for our family reunion which sounds silly since we all live together except my DS27 who lives in CA :rotfl2: Funny how you can all live under one roof and not see each other every day :confused3

You have some great ideas on how to get in the Disney mood - downloading music (I've been downloading music from youtube and Subsonic Radio. I'm too cheap to do it thru Itunes :lmao:), Birnbaum guide (I'm also too cheap and make my own) and making tshirts (now that is a great idea - I can't skimp on the cost of those so I better get busy, huh?).

I'm so excited for you and your family - if you see a group of 8 mostly young adults under 30 and a tired looking grandma trying to keep up with a 3 yr old GS, wave hi - oh and if you happen to go to the Boardwalk, you might see our rooms (we have a 2-bedroom villa and 2 studios booked boardwalk view). I plan to string lights on the balcony (if allowed) and put a lime green Mickey on the windows.

[exwdwcm]

Hurray - you will be there the same time we will (we are staying at BWV tho)! I booked our trip 11 mos in advance cuz we rented points and I'm so glad to finally see 8 mos 5 days show up on my counter :woohoo: I think I'm the only one who has caught the Disney bug in our household - my kids haven't been since 1997 (except my DS32 who has been 3 other times but last visit was in 2000). My youngest 2 sons have never gone so I'm so excited for our family reunion which sounds silly since we all live together except my DS27 who lives in CA :rotfl2: Funny how you can all live under one roof and not see each other every day :confused3

You have some great ideas on how to get in the Disney mood - downloading music (I've been downloading music from youtube and Subsonic Radio. I'm too cheap to do it thru Itunes :lmao:), Birnbaum guide (I'm also too cheap and make my own) and making tshirts (now that is a great idea - I can't skimp on the cost of those so I better get busy, huh?).

I'm so excited for you and your family - if you see a group of 8 mostly young adults under 30 and a tired looking grandma trying to keep up with a 3 yr old GS, wave hi - oh and if you happen to go to the Boardwalk, you might see our rooms (we have a 2-bedroom villa and 2 studios booked boardwalk view). I plan to string lights on the balcony (if allowed) and put a lime green Mickey on the windows.lol, sounds fabulous! we had a similar group this past early december- 11 adults and 3 kiddos. had a blast (see trip report in sig). We did string lights on our balcony at WL with no problems at all and as it got closer to christmas, i saw more decorations from the guests! so fun!!:santa:

[bluesuzy77]

Just booked our trip!!! Grand gathering to celebrate my Mom's 70th birthday! November 29 -December 5 at the Wilderness Lodge! Can't wait!!!!!:woohoo:

[Cherinva]

We are going to be there Dec. 10th - 12th. We are booked at the Poly...plan on attending MVMCP and meeting up with a bunch of other DISers. Then on the 12th, we go on the Wonder for a 4 day cruise. Yippie.

[soontobewed07]

:wave2: Hello fellow nutmegger!

I have only flown once in my life, when I was nine months old and we went to Disney. I don't necessarily have issues with flying, except paying for all the kids to fly. :scared1: Holy smokes that's expensive. Some people think we are crazy to drive but it's really not bad. We drive straight through too. But it works for us so why not? I actually like the ride for the most part. :drive:

soontobewed07 - I agree completely. I tell people how much money I save and it helps justify another trip (anything to justify another trip.... ;) )

We figured out in what we save we can buy an annual pass. We drive straight thru too it harder to take DS almost 3 in and out of his car seat. We always try and make 1 long stop about an hour or so and he runs around and gets tired then he sleeps in the car. I like that we get most of the driving out of the way while he is sleeping. I am just hoping December is nice to us:flower3:

[exwdwcm]

We are going to be there Dec. 10th - 12th. We are booked at the Poly...plan on attending MVMCP and meeting up with a bunch of other DISers. Then on the 12th, we go on the Wonder for a 4 day cruise. Yippie.The podcast cruise? have fun- i did it last year, but decided to pass this year, so we could do a week in WDW instead. did you go last year? it was a lot of fun and my first cruise ever! one day we will get back on a disney cruise!:thumbsup2

[exwdwcm]

woo hoo, booked our flights yesterday. i found direct from DFW (we live 15 minutes from DFW) on american for about $218 per person. Since we will be travelling with a 3yo and car seat, i don't want to deal with a connection. I've rarely seen American direct to MCO for less than $250. So i went ahead and booked. It was actually at $180 or so a few weeks ago and keeps going up. I figured i better bite soon, who knows how much higher it will go. I felt comfortable with the price i got, plus i got the exact times i wanted too---first flight out at 6:55am, arrive MCO 10:20am. departing at 6pm and arriving home at 8:15pm or so.

:thumbsup2

[taylor3297]

woo hoo, booked our flights yesterday. i found direct from DFW (we live 15 minutes from DFW) on american for about $218 per person. Since we will be travelling with a 3yo and car seat, i don't want to deal with a connection. I've rarely seen American direct to MCO for less than $250. So i went ahead and booked. It was actually at $180 or so a few weeks ago and keeps going up. I figured i better bite soon, who knows how much higher it will go. I felt comfortable with the price i got, plus i got the exact times i wanted too---first flight out at 6:55am, arrive MCO 10:20am. departing at 6pm and arriving home at 8:15pm or so.

:thumbsup2

I am waiting until June when southwest puts out the flights for the rest of the year. That is about our only airline that flies direct from here.

[aharbin88]

Joining in! We'll be there December 3-12th. We just bought into DVC, and we'll be in a Grand Villa at SSR. We bought sight unseen, but from everything I've heard, we won't be disappointed!
It will be DH and I and our 2 girls, MIL and FIL, and SIL and her 4 kids. Our family alone qualifies as a Grand Gathering! :lmao:

Can't wait to get to know some of my fellow DIS'ers who will be there at the same time!

[exwdwcm]

I am waiting until June when southwest puts out the flights for the rest of the year. That is about our only airline that flies direct from here.unfortunately, SW can't fly direct out of Dallas to MCO until 2014 due to the Wright Admendment (don't ask!). When they do, you can bet i will be flying them. love them.

Joining in! We'll be there December 3-12th. We just bought into DVC, and we'll be in a Grand Villa at SSR. We bought sight unseen, but from everything I've heard, we won't be disappointed!
It will be DH and I and our 2 girls, MIL and FIL, and SIL and her 4 kids. Our family alone qualifies as a Grand Gathering! :lmao:

Can't wait to get to know some of my fellow DIS'ers who will be there at the same time!welcome!!! we are new to DVC as well (BLT) and can't wait to experience our first DVC trip. Are you doing APs? I've heard the Grand Villas are fantastic- i can't wait to see photos of your trip!!

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

I could have sworn I saw a December thread with a list of DISers on the first page and their dates and hotels. Am I dreaming? That's my FAVORITE part of the the official threads!!!

[taylor3297]

I could have sworn I saw a December thread with a list of DISers on the first page and their dates and hotels. Am I dreaming? That's my FAVORITE part of the the official threads!!!

You did. It is the Official December Code Watch page started by momof3gs.

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

You did. It is the Official December Code Watch page started by momof3gs.

Glad I'm not going crazy!! :laughing: I was just scouring the wrong board. :upsidedow

[jerlove]

I was bitten by the WDW bug on our first family vacation in Jan of 09 loved it so much that we had to book again for Dec of 09 because we missed seeing the Christmas decorations. Now we are in love with the Christmas Decorations especially the Osborne lights so we booked again for November 28till Dec 5 this year. Hoping for lower crowds then last year.

We really took the plunge. Our last 2 trips have been in the value resorts but this year we decided to try AKL. My wife felt that having the hot tub was worth the extrat $1200.00 :lmao:

I cant wait to see my countdown ticker after this message posts. :laughing:

[PolyndianPrincessJes]

I was bitten by the WDW bug on our first family vacation in Jan of 09 loved it so much that we had to book again for Dec of 09 because we missed seeing the Christmas decorations. Now we are in love with the Christmas Decorations especially the Osborne lights so we booked again for November 28till Dec 5 this year. Hoping for lower crowds then last year.

We really took the plunge. Our last 2 trips have been in the value resorts but this year we decided to try AKL. My wife felt that having the hot tub was worth the extrat $1200.00 :lmao:

I cant wait to see my countdown ticker after this message posts. :laughing:

Oops! You better get a new ticker, then! :laughing:

You'll love staying deluxe. Granted I can't compare it to anything, as we've only stayed deluxe, but it's always worth the extra $$$. ;)

[DenishaT]

YAY! I just convinced myself that I need another Disney vacay! (ok, so it really wasn't all that hard! :goodvibes). I've only been twice but after my Sept. 09 'big kid' vacation, I figured I needed to make this a yearly event! I/we will be there dec. 5 - 12 (if I don't get a new job before then!). I cannot wait to see all the Christmas decorations. Still trying to decide on MVMCP!! (suggestions?)

[exwdwcm]

YAY! I just convinced myself that I need another Disney vacay! (ok, so it really wasn't all that hard! :goodvibes). I've only been twice but after my Sept. 09 'big kid' vacation, I figured I needed to make this a yearly event! I/we will be there dec. 5 - 12 (if I don't get a new job before then!). I cannot wait to see all the Christmas decorations. Still trying to decide on MVMCP!! (suggestions?)welcome to Dec fellow Texan! I'll be there the 4th-11th. I enjoy MVMCP, but it really just depends. We like to go and just get the 'extra hours' in the park, since it closes so early (7pm) on MVMCP nights and the non MVMCP nights are crowded. We enjoy the christmas parade, free treats and the low crowds while we ride rides during parade #1. don't get me wrong, it isn't low crowds the whole night, but we tend to get a lot of rides done with little wait while most are catching the first parade. we enjoy it, but it isn't something everyone wants to dish out the extra cash for.:wizard::santa:

[stephielela]

We are going Dec 16-22nd, it's me, my son (2), my sister and my parents in two rooms at CBR (for now) with dxdp! we have been a couple times around christmas, but this will be the first time we are all going with my son. we plan on doing mvmcp on the 17th and also heading to universal for a partial day. i have started a PTR already... i know, it's a sickness, and i have most of the days mapped out...

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2389146

[PalmettoPrincess]

Just booked a few days ago for Dec 5 -12 at AKL Villas! We got the dining plan and plan on spending 4 glorious days in the parks, one exploring other resorts/DTD and a day at US for HP! I can't wait!

The only problem is now I'm second-guessing my trip dates. Is this a good week to go? Or should I book for the following week, the week before Christmas? :(???

[exwdwcm]

Just booked a few days ago for Dec 5 -12 at AKL Villas! We got the dining plan and plan on spending 4 glorious days in the parks, one exploring other resorts/DTD and a day at US for HP! I can't wait!

The only problem is now I'm second-guessing my trip dates. Is this a good week to go? Or should I book for the following week, the week before Christmas? :(???i've done both weeks and they are pretty comparable. since you are staying at AKL, you won't have any problems with POP Warner. I only saw them in the park one time the week we did during POP. So they shouldn't pose a problem.

i did notice the weekend before Christmas this past year (just went in 2009, from 12/10-12/20), that it got extremely crowded (19-20), so that is why we are doing 12/4-12/11 this time. Plus i felt so rushed when i got home this last trip- we got home on the 20th and boom, it was christmas time and i was rushed to get hte house ready to host dinner and parties etc. This time, going earlier, i'll have more time to prepare for Christmas when we return.

The do film the Christmas parade that first weekend, but we just plan to avoid the MK that day. However, i've heard many people found it to not be that bad if you were riding rides and avoiding the parade area (Main St.). We arrive that am and plan to hit up DTD for lunch and then Epcot that evening.

You can expect higher crowds on the weekends in Dec typically anyhow as the locals come in to see the Osborne lights, candlelight processional etc. We just try and plan to do the big rides on the weekdays and less popular stuff on weekends when the crowds are bigger.

otherwise, i think either week is great and i'd just stick with what you have!

[exwdwcm]

so has anyone started planning their itinerary? I am OCD and start early. i know CRAZY!!! :rotfl::lmao:I can't wait for hours to come out.

We are thinking:

Sat 12/4- arrive 10:30am, lunch at DTD (Earle), check in BLT, evening at Epcot and dinner at Teppan Edo, Illuminations

Sun 12/5- CP breakfast, MK am, break/lunch in room, HS pm for EMH (Osborne lights- see them late- 9-10pm or so when crowds die down), fast food dinner

Mon 12/6- Epcot am, lunch at Chefs de France, break, MK pm for EMH, Spectro

Tues 12/7- AK all day, lunch YakYeti QS, evening/dinner in the room, watch WISHES from top of world lounge at BLT (worried about skipping DS's nap, but want to get AK done in a day if we can, figure he can sleep in stroller!)

Wed 12/8- HS am (TSM first!), lunch at Sci Fi, break, Epcot pm, dinner Sunshine Seasons

Thursday 12/9- Epcot am EMH, lunch around the world QS, break, early Ohana dinner (5pm), MVMCP

Friday 12/10- MK am, fast food lunch, break, Epcot pm for EMH, dinner Le Cellier

Saturday 12/11- sleep in, check out, late breakfast at Chef Mickey's 10:30am? , MK am (or whatever we missed), maybe DTD. back to BLT for carry ons and leave for airport by 3:30pm. 6pm flight home.


how's it look? we want to fit in at least 2.5 days at MK and 2.5 at Epcot. We need at least one morning and night at HS (to catch TSM and Osborne lights). We need a 3/4 day at least at AK. We typically take a midday break each day. our DS will be just over 3 when we go. This past Dec, we took a 2 hour break each day and it worked well. He was able to then go late each night (and do RD each am). We are early risers and plan to be at each park at opening and stay late, hence the break. We plan to cook in the room a bit too (1 bedroom at BLT). most breakfast is in room.

i really wanted to fit a dinner at Jiko in there, but we just don't have a good night to do it. I would add it on our AK day, but we will be doing so long that day with no break, that i wanted to have our afternoon/evening free to relax in our room (eat in) and swim and visit the lounge. JIKO can't wait for another trip i figure (i have to remind myself we are DVC and will be back again!!!).


We are only doing one morning EMH. we typically do more, but just couldn't make it work. We are doing an evening EMH at HS, Epcot and MK. We know they get crowded, but we typically plan to visit the less crowded/popular attractions during EMH anyhow, it jsut gives us more time in the parks since we take a break each day.

[amely]

This is my first DIS board post! We are Amanda, my DH Kevin, and our five year old daughter Sofia (who truly believes she is one of the Disney Princesses). Kevin and I honeymooned at WDW in 1999 (POR), and then returned in 2000 for our first anniversary (AS...cannot remember which one!). We are planning a return trip...but I have a few questions.

1) What are the POP Warner dates? I am concerned about what I have read here...and we will most likely stay at one of the AS resorts. Our possible dates are 11/28-12/3 or 12/1-12/7.

2) We have air vouchers with AirTran. They will not post their December dates for another month or so. Would you book WDW before the airline tickets? If I have to change by a day or so...is there a penalty?

TIA!

Amanda

[taylor3297]

This is my first DIS board post! We are Amanda, my DH Kevin, and our five year old daughter Sofia (who truly believes she is one of the Disney Princesses). Kevin and I honeymooned at WDW in 1999 (POR), and then returned in 2000 for our first anniversary (AS...cannot remember which one!). We are planning a return trip...but I have a few questions.

1) What are the POP Warner dates? I am concerned about what I have read here...and we will most likely stay at one of the AS resorts. Our possible dates are 11/28-12/3 or 12/1-12/7.

2) We have air vouchers with AirTran. They will not post their December dates for another month or so. Would you book WDW before the airline tickets? If I have to change by a day or so...is there a penalty?

TIA!

Amanda

If you want to avoid the Pop Warner group, then go 11/28 - 12/3. The Pop groups will be arriving as you are leaving.

I am going 12/4 - 12/12, which is Pop Warner time, but we won't have to deal with except the occassional occurence in the park.

[exwdwcm]

This is my first DIS board post! We are Amanda, my DH Kevin, and our five year old daughter Sofia (who truly believes she is one of the Disney Princesses). Kevin and I honeymooned at WDW in 1999 (POR), and then returned in 2000 for our first anniversary (AS...cannot remember which one!). We are planning a return trip...but I have a few questions.

1) What are the POP Warner dates? I am concerned about what I have read here...and we will most likely stay at one of the AS resorts. Our possible dates are 11/28-12/3 or 12/1-12/7.

2) We have air vouchers with AirTran. They will not post their December dates for another month or so. Would you book WDW before the airline tickets? If I have to change by a day or so...is there a penalty?

TIA!

AmandaWelcome :banana::wizard:

POP Warner is usually that second weekend in December----and it is estimated it will be the week of December . last year it was December 6-12th (sunday-sat). some will come in that saturday though, which also happens to be the day of the Christmas parade taping too typically. You will notice check in will be mobbed on that Sat/Sun (12/4-12/5) at those resorts they stay at probably.

I forget which values they stay at- but i think typically it is the all stars. I know they have overflow often to POR. We were at POR one year during POP and had a horrible experience one night with noise and cheerleaders (waking our 2yo) at midnight. I will not stay at a resort they are at ever again. However, i did NOT notice any problems in the parks at all- in fact we only saw POP kids one time in the parks and it was football players that were very well behaved and polite.

Note that they will usually close HS down early one night for a private party for POP too- i think usually midweek? If you are staying value- i would book the first week you listed to avoid most of POP, since it is very likely they could be at your resort. they only seem to be an issue at the resorts. Even at POR, we noticed the pool and food court were extremely packed.

I would have no problem booking WDW before booking flights, in fact, i always book the trip first, flight second. we've had our Dec trip booked (room) since December and just booked our flights. We know we can always adjust our room if needed- add a night, delete a night, shift dates etc. usually pretty easily unless you are on a special package deal or special rate for certain dates. i think most packages you can cancel up to 45 days out with no penalty too. The only concern really would be availability i think, not penalties.

good luck!

[DarthCarr]

While we have to wait to see if I get approved for SSI,the lawyer says that I'm a "poster child" for my benefits,and I plan on going December 5th-10th!!!!!! And then again in June of 2011.

[Carolina Mom]

Dates are December 9-14 and staying at Poly! Hoping that Disney will do Free Dining again into December but know it's probably a long shot! Already have unused tickets and want to have meal plan so free dining maximizes our savings (unless they do the $750 gift card instead-wishful thinking!)

[Kaler131]

My sister and I are in the early planning stages for this December!! Can't wait!!!!:cool1: We have never been to WDW in December and I am soooooo excited!!:thumbsup2

[PalmettoPrincess]

Thanks for the advice, exwdwcm! That is just what I needed to calm my nerves! How are the crowd levels typically during this time? It's my first Dec trip......... :goodvibes Your itinerary sounds great too! Someday I'll get to park hopping (probably when I have kids of my own), but for now we're a one park a day kinda couple. I've been wanting to try Jiko too... it's too bad you can't find time! But you're right, Jiko will be there on your next trip!

This is my itinerary as of now:

Sunday: Arrive noon-ish, Explore AKL, dinner at Boma

Monday: Arrive at RD for DHS, lunch at Backlot Express, dinner at Sci-Fi

Tuesday: Arrive at RD for MK, lunch at Cosmic Ray's, dinner at Tony's

Wednesday: Sleep-in, Breakfast at Boma, Explore Monorail resorts & DTD, lunch at EOS, dinner at Ohana

Thursday: Arrive at RD for AK, lunch at Flame Tree, dinner at Yak & Yeti

Friday: Arrive at RD for Epcot, lunch at Sunshine Seasons, dinner at Le Cellier

Saturday: Quick breakfast at Mara, Arrive at US for WWOHP, dinner at Cookes

Sunday: Sleep-in, pack, lunch at WPE, head home

I hope it'll work out the way I plan! I know we'll be tired, but oh well! lol! I'd really like to do something "special", so I'm debating whether or not I'd like to do MVMCP or the Keys to the Kingdom tour. I think the DBF would like the tour better, but I'm worried I might not get the chance to do the Xmas party again......... :confused3



2) We have air vouchers with AirTran. They will not post their December dates for another month or so. Would you book WDW before the airline tickets? If I have to change by a day or so...is there a penalty?


i think most packages you can cancel up to 45 days out with no penalty too. The only concern really would be availability i think, not penalties.

amely, I agree with exwdwcm... you'll get refunded up to 45-days before (minus vacation insurance, if you choose to get it), so I would go ahead and book now :goodvibes

Dates are December 9-14 and staying at Poly! Hoping that Disney will do Free Dining again into December but know it's probably a long shot! Already have unused tickets and want to have meal plan so free dining maximizes our savings (unless they do the $750 gift card instead-wishful thinking!)

I'm hoping for Free Dining too! Would save me some money!! Haha... or the gift card too! That should definitely pay for our meals, or at least most of them! :rotfl: PS: Hi neighbor!

[DarthCarr]

While we have to wait to see if I get approved for SSI,the lawyer says that I'm a "poster child" for my benefits,and I plan on going December 5th-10th!!!!!! And then again in June of 2011.

Well this trip has been cancelled because me & my Mom are gonna celebrate my 21st Birthday next April in Las Vegas BUT the whole family is coming with us in June 2011 which makes that trip even more exciting!!!!!!

[Vickis3js]

I wish I could plan itenerary for our Dec trip but right now we are waitlisted for a 1bd conceirge at AKL if that comes through our plans will change a bit because we may be cutting one day out or doing one night at universal. I'vr decided that if it doesn't come through 2 weeks past the 7 month mark I am just going to cancel the waitlist. This way I can plan our dining and get it all set and not worry about it. Yeah right I can never not mess with my ADRs

[exwdwcm]

Dates are December 9-14 and staying at Poly! Hoping that Disney will do Free Dining again into December but know it's probably a long shot! Already have unused tickets and want to have meal plan so free dining maximizes our savings (unless they do the $750 gift card instead-wishful thinking!)the rumor i am hearing is that is they do offer free dining, it will likely be the quick service plan only? you never know though what they will throw at us! I love being DVC now, but will hate missing out on free dining!

Thanks for the advice, exwdwcm! That is just what I needed to calm my nerves! How are the crowd levels typically during this time? It's my first Dec trip......... :goodvibes Your itinerary sounds great too! Someday I'll get to park hopping (probably when I have kids of my own), but for now we're a one park a day kinda couple. I've been wanting to try Jiko too... it's too bad you can't find time! But you're right, Jiko will be there on your next trip!

This is my itinerary as of now:

Sunday: Arrive noon-ish, Explore AKL, dinner at Boma

Monday: Arrive at RD for DHS, lunch at Backlot Express, dinner at Sci-Fi

Tuesday: Arrive at RD for MK, lunch at Cosmic Ray's, dinner at Tony's

Wednesday: Sleep-in, Breakfast at Boma, Explore Monorail resorts & DTD, lunch at EOS, dinner at Ohana

Thursday: Arrive at RD for AK, lunch at Flame Tree, dinner at Yak & Yeti

Friday: Arrive at RD for Epcot, lunch at Sunshine Seasons, dinner at Le Cellier

Saturday: Quick breakfast at Mara, Arrive at US for WWOHP, dinner at Cookes

Sunday: Sleep-in, pack, lunch at WPE, head home

I hope it'll work out the way I plan! I know we'll be tired, but oh well! lol! I'd really like to do something "special", so I'm debating whether or not I'd like to do MVMCP or the Keys to the Kingdom tour. I think the DBF would like the tour better, but I'm worried I might not get the chance to do the Xmas party again......... :confused3This looks great!! i love AKL! you are eating at a few of the same places as us too! HOw is Tony's? that one is on my to do list one day. We tend to get stuck eating the same places over and over because we love it- or like this trip- want to show someone new that is coming with us. I could totally pass on sci fi (i love it more for hte atmosphere than the food- i am a big sci fi nerd), but i think DH wants to show his mom how cool it is. so we end up at the same places. now that we are DVC, i figure i have lots of future trips though where i can try out all the restaurants eventually. lol

we did hte KTTK tour in May and loved it. i spent 2 days at WDW prior to the DIS podcast cruise and it was just my parents, my cousin and I (no DH or son). We did the tour and had a ball. i do recommend it. it wasn't as much backstage/utilidors as i expected (but i had seen it all before as a CM), but still fun and i learned a lot of info and saw a lot of little things in the parks i had never noticed before!

Well this trip has been cancelled because me & my Mom are gonna celebrate my 21st Birthday next April in Las Vegas BUT the whole family is coming with us in June 2011 which makes that trip even more exciting!!!!!!
yeah for Vegas and then WDW! i love Vegas too (was married at Mandalay Bay almost 10 years ago). you will have a ball!
I wish I could plan itenerary for our Dec trip but right now we are waitlisted for a 1bd conceirge at AKL if that comes through our plans will change a bit because we may be cutting one day out or doing one night at universal. I'vr decided that if it doesn't come through 2 weeks past the 7 month mark I am just going to cancel the waitlist. This way I can plan our dining and get it all set and not worry about it. Yeah right I can never not mess with my ADRshope your waitlist comes through!

speaking of universal- how many of you plan to spend some time there? I am debating it. our son will be 3yo, so he is pretty little to really enjoy a lot of islands of adventure, other than Seuss landing. I've never done IOA, but have done Universal a few times here and in CA. It didn't do much for me and i even visited during a private corporate function where we basically had the park to ourselves with no lines and it still just didn't do much for me. now, i would like to check out HP, but not sure how bad the crowds could be too? plus i hate giving up a day at WDW, when i know our son will enjoy it more.

[PalmettoPrincess]

the rumor i am hearing is that is they do offer free dining, it will likely be the quick service plan only?
Well, if they do only offer the QS plan, we could still upgrade to the DDP for like around $10/day, right? That's still not bad at all!


This looks great!! i love AKL! you are eating at a few of the same places as us too! HOw is Tony's? that one is on my to do list one day. We tend to get stuck eating the same places over and over because we love it- or like this trip- want to show someone new that is coming with us. I could totally pass on sci fi (i love it more for hte atmosphere than the food- i am a big sci fi nerd), but i think DH wants to show his mom how cool it is. so we end up at the same places. now that we are DVC, i figure i have lots of future trips though where i can try out all the restaurants eventually. lol

we did hte KTTK tour in May and loved it. i spent 2 days at WDW prior to the DIS podcast cruise and it was just my parents, my cousin and I (no DH or son). We did the tour and had a ball. i do recommend it. it wasn't as much backstage/utilidors as i expected (but i had seen it all before as a CM), but still fun and i learned a lot of info and saw a lot of little things in the parks i had never noticed before!
Thank you! I'm thinking I might switch US to Friday since locals might still be swamping it on the weekends... I'll just have to wait and see as we get closer I guess... Yeah, I'm leaning towards the tour. We'll get a free lunch too, so I'll have an extra credit to use somewhere along the way. I haven't been to Tony's since '94, but my mom says it was good. I don't remember it much though. This trip we'd like to try new places for the most part. We've done Boma dinner (we liked it so much we're doing breakfast and dinner this trip), Sunshine Seasons (great variety and value!), Flame Tree (just can't do AK without Flame Tree!!) and Sci-Fi (the DBF doesn't want to do 50's although I tell him the food is good and the other TS don't really interest me, so we're doing Sci-Fi again; and honestly, I rather enjoyed it as did the DBF :confused3 lol)


speaking of universal- how many of you plan to spend some time there? I am debating it. our son will be 3yo, so he is pretty little to really enjoy a lot of islands of adventure, other than Seuss landing. I've never done IOA, but have done Universal a few times here and in CA. It didn't do much for me and i even visited during a private corporate function where we basically had the park to ourselves with no lines and it still just didn't do much for me. now, i would like to check out HP, but not sure how bad the crowds could be too? plus i hate giving up a day at WDW, when i know our son will enjoy it more.
We're definitely doing US this time but just because of Harry Potter. We're both HP NUTS. IMO, since your son is only 3 I might skip US for now. I think Disney has more to offer for little ones. And that way you'll be kept happy too. US will still be there in the future and as you said, you're DVC now so you'll be going down a lot!

DarthCarr - - I hope you have a wonderful birthday in Vegas! The family trip sounds great!

Welcome Kaler131! This is our first trip in Dec too! It's gonna be so pretty and magical! I can't wait to see the decorations! Where are you staying?:santa:

Vickis3js - I hope you can get the 1BDR too! What is your other option?

Has anyone started a PTR???

[Vickis3js]

Right now we are booked in a 2bd standard view at Kidani. I will probably change that to a 1bd savannah view since we could only get a lock off and I would prefer a dedicated with the 3 kids. I am also going to try for a 1bd at BLT at 7 months. I have no clue what I want to do. My DS wants to see HP at Universal so we may do one night at HRH club level. I already have 2 tickets for universal so I would only need to buy 3 more.

Oh what to do what to do. Way too many options. DH is not being very helpful at all. He just says whatever you want darling just let me know where to be and when. So thats why I love coming here other people who know what its like to drive yourself insane wiht making plans.

I did find out from the kids where they want to eat. We have decided that we want to try every restaurant in WDW so we are not going to do anything we have already done. Well I did let them go someplace they have been as long as they pick a different meal. So if we did CM for breakfast we can only do dinner.

So far we have
CRT dinner
Mama Melrose
Sci Fi
CM dinner
Tusker House breakfast
Le Cellier

Still have a few more to pick though.

[Vickis3js]

For the OP who asked about Tony's DH and I ate there last month when we went and we both really enjoyed it. We did a walk in at opening for dinner and we were seated in about 10 minutes. Staff was so nice. The only thing we did not like was the shrimp salad appie. We were so stuffed we didn't eat dessert. Our meal was so hot I actually burnt my tongue on the pasta. We have added it to our list of will return to when we have finished eating at all of the restaurants.

[Dawn68PA]

Hello - just joining this thread. We are going to WDW from December 4-11 staying at BCV. We've never been during December before and are very excited! Our cast at trip time will be me (42), DH (44), DD19 and her fiance (23).

I'm trying to get an itinerary in some kind of order already. Work will be hectic next month and my ADR date is 6/7!. We are pretty set on the following restaurants:

Cape May Cafe
Teppan Edo (for the kids, DH & I will go elsewhere just not sure where yet)
50's Prime Time (lunch)
1900 Park Fare
Garden Grill
Hollywood & Vine (lunch maybe - still undecided here)
and maybe Kona (not sure on this one yet)

We've been to WDW 3 times before and are trying not to duplicate any place we have been before. Well we've done a 1900 Park Fair Breakfast before but not the dinner.

I hope to get to know y'all. Anyone else going during our time? Is there a list in this thread? I haven't read it all yet....

[PalmettoPrincess]

Right now we are booked in a 2bd standard view at Kidani. I will probably change that to a 1bd savannah view since we could only get a lock off and I would prefer a dedicated with the 3 kids. I am also going to try for a 1bd at BLT at 7 months. I have no clue what I want to do. My DS wants to see HP at Universal so we may do one night at HRH club level. I already have 2 tickets for universal so I would only need to buy 3 more.

Oh what to do what to do. Way too many options. DH is not being very helpful at all. He just says whatever you want darling just let me know where to be and when. So thats why I love coming here other people who know what its like to drive yourself insane wiht making plans.

I did find out from the kids where they want to eat. We have decided that we want to try every restaurant in WDW so we are not going to do anything we have already done. Well I did let them go someplace they have been as long as they pick a different meal. So if we did CM for breakfast we can only do dinner.

So far we have
CRT dinner
Mama Melrose
Sci Fi
CM dinner
Tusker House breakfast
Le Cellier

Still have a few more to pick though.
I totally understand that dilemma! The DBF is pretty much no help either... the only request he made was AKL with a Savanna view. The rest is pretty much up to me! Have you ever stayed at AKL with a Savanna view? I hear it's pretty much AMAZING! I'm so excited about it! Of course, your other options sound good too. I think BLT is gorgeous! I hope to stay there someday myself. Let me know how Mama Melrose is! I'm kinda scared to try it... We did CRT dinner last trip for my birthday and it was nice. We got a window seat over looking Fantasyland and that was perfect. See if you can request a window seat. I wasn't impressed with the Fairy Godmother-spiel, so I'm glad they changed it to another princess meal. We'll be trying Le Cellier for the first time too (hopefully)...... can't wait to try the Cheddar Cheese Soup and the Chocolate Moose!! :d

For the OP who asked about Tony's DH and I ate there last month when we went and we both really enjoyed it. We did a walk in at opening for dinner and we were seated in about 10 minutes. Staff was so nice. The only thing we did not like was the shrimp salad appie. We were so stuffed we didn't eat dessert. Our meal was so hot I actually burnt my tongue on the pasta. We have added it to our list of will return to when we have finished eating at all of the restaurants.
This is good news! Positive reviews for Tony's is pretty hit or miss on the Dis, so I'm glad that you enjoyed it! I don't remember Tony's, so it's like going again for the first time. What did you have to eat? I'm thinking about getting spaghetti and meatballs and doing the whole "Lady and the Tramp thing" ;)

Hello - just joining this thread. We are going to WDW from December 4-11 staying at BCV. We've never been during December before and are very excited! Our cast at trip time will be me (42), DH (44), DD19 and her fiance (23).

I'm trying to get an itinerary in some kind of order already. Work will be hectic next month and my ADR date is 6/7!. We are pretty set on the following restaurants:

Cape May Cafe
Teppan Edo (for the kids, DH & I will go elsewhere just not sure where yet)
50's Prime Time (lunch)
1900 Park Fare
Garden Grill
Hollywood & Vine (lunch maybe - still undecided here)
and maybe Kona (not sure on this one yet)

We've been to WDW 3 times before and are trying not to duplicate any place we have been before. Well we've done a 1900 Park Fair Breakfast before but not the dinner.

I hope to get to know y'all. Anyone else going during our time? Is there a list in this thread? I haven't read it all yet....

YES! The DBF and I will be there Dec 5-12! Maybe we'll see you around! The only place I've been to on your list is 50's PT for dinner and I thought it was delicious! OMG, the pot roast was to die for! So tender..... I'd love to try Kona (I really want to try TONGA TOAST but I don't think we'll get there this trip).... what other restaurant are you considering while your DD and her fiance go to Teppan Edo?

[Dawn68PA]

We haven't decided yet. We have eaten a lot of places on the FW side but have only eaten at Italy and Norway on the WS side. I think France is the closest country to Japan. We could also do Le Cellier or Rose & Crown. Decisions decisions. Any recommendations?

[Vickis3js]

We stayed in a savannah view room last Dec and we loved it. I loved coming back to the room in the afternoon and enjoying a coffee or a drink on the balcony watching my zebra. We had 4 of them that always stayed around our balcony. We came home to 4 of them sleeping right there under it. We did a standard view room in March and we got lucky and had a pool view but it definatly did not come close to the savannah view.

We are not too sure of BLT. We love AKL, thats why we bought there, but we want to try them all atleast once. So we figure we might as well do it now while we can still get away with a 1 bdroom the 2 bd points are :scared1:

[disneychick0412]

Hello all!! :wave: Hope you don't mind me joining this thread!!
After much back and forth, we have settled on December 4th-11th, 2010.
We actually booked a bounceback when we were there in February for 35% off of our CBR room! I have wanted to stay there for a long time, and finally just went for it!!!

We have been to WDW in December before (2006), but missed lots of cool things (Osborne Lights, resort decorations). :santa:

Anyone else think it seems like soooo far away?????? (That's the reason for all the back and forth in our dates)

First stay at CBR, First time seeing Osborne Lights and all those great resort decorations!! I'm super excited!! :santa:

[Vickis3js]

:wave2: Hello! Dec is an amazing time to go. We go for Christmas, getting there the week before and leaving the day after. Osborne lights is AMAZING totally worth the wait I think. We love resort hoping and seeing all the decorations. When we went in March everything looked naked to me since we are so used to all the extra decorations.

It does seem so far away but planning with everyone at the Dis helps since you know you are not alone.

[exwdwcm]

Well, if they do only offer the QS plan, we could still upgrade to the DDP for like around $10/day, right? That's still not bad at all!

Thank you! I'm thinking I might switch US to Friday since locals might still be swamping it on the weekends... I'll just have to wait and see as we get closer I guess... Yeah, I'm leaning towards the tour. We'll get a free lunch too, so I'll have an extra credit to use somewhere along the way. I haven't been to Tony's since '94, but my mom says it was good. I don't remember it much though. This trip we'd like to try new places for the most part. We've done Boma dinner (we liked it so much we're doing breakfast and dinner this trip), Sunshine Seasons (great variety and value!), Flame Tree (just can't do AK without Flame Tree!!) and Sci-Fi (the DBF doesn't want to do 50's although I tell him the food is good and the other TS don't really interest me, so we're doing Sci-Fi again; and honestly, I rather enjoyed it as did the DBF :confused3 lol)

We're definitely doing US this time but just because of Harry Potter. We're both HP NUTS. IMO, since your son is only 3 I might skip US for now. I think Disney has more to offer for little ones. And that way you'll be kept happy too. US will still be there in the future and as you said, you're DVC now so you'll be going down a lot!

Has anyone started a PTR???hey there- i started a PTR- see my sig for the link! We never miss flame tree barbeque at AK either! too funny! :thumbsup2 wow, didn't kknow about upgrading to the regular dining plan- that is a good deal if only $10!!!! yeah, the free lunch is nice on the tour- i think they still do Columbia harbor house, but it is good and they put you upstairs in a special area away from the 'public'. ;) i do enjoy sci Fi too- so i don't mind going back. we had a bad service experience last time at 50s, so decided to skip it the next few trips.

Right now we are booked in a 2bd standard view at Kidani. I will probably change that to a 1bd savannah view since we could only get a lock off and I would prefer a dedicated with the 3 kids. I am also going to try for a 1bd at BLT at 7 months. I have no clue what I want to do. My DS wants to see HP at Universal so we may do one night at HRH club level. I already have 2 tickets for universal so I would only need to buy 3 more.

Oh what to do what to do. Way too many options. DH is not being very helpful at all. He just says whatever you want darling just let me know where to be and when. So thats why I love coming here other people who know what its like to drive yourself insane wiht making plans.

I did find out from the kids where they want to eat. We have decided that we want to try every restaurant in WDW so we are not going to do anything we have already done. Well I did let them go someplace they have been as long as they pick a different meal. So if we did CM for breakfast we can only do dinner.

So far we have
CRT dinner
Mama Melrose
Sci Fi
CM dinner
Tusker House breakfast
Le Cellier

Still have a few more to pick though.Hi Vicki! my DH lets me do all the planning too- although this time i am asking about where he wants to eat and he said Le Cellier and Ohana are musts. the rest he leaves up to me, which is fun, but yeah, can be frustrating too. so are these all new places you are trying then? you will love Le Cellier! i'd like to eventually try each place too, and we keep getting stuck at the same ones. i think the only new place we are doing this time is Teppan Edo.

For the OP who asked about Tony's DH and I ate there last month when we went and we both really enjoyed it. We did a walk in at opening for dinner and we were seated in about 10 minutes. Staff was so nice. The only thing we did not like was the shrimp salad appie. We were so stuffed we didn't eat dessert. Our meal was so hot I actually burnt my tongue on the pasta. We have added it to our list of will return to when we have finished eating at all of the restaurants.thanks Vicki- i'll definitely have to add it on the list for next time then!

Hello - just joining this thread. We are going to WDW from December 4-11 staying at BCV. We've never been during December before and are very excited! Our cast at trip time will be me (42), DH (44), DD19 and her fiance (23).I'm trying to get an itinerary in some kind of order already. Work will be hectic next month and my ADR date is 6/7!. We are pretty set on the following restaurants:

Cape May Cafe
Teppan Edo (for the kids, DH & I will go elsewhere just not sure where yet)
50's Prime Time (lunch)
1900 Park Fare
Garden Grill
Hollywood & Vine (lunch maybe - still undecided here)
and maybe Kona (not sure on this one yet)

We've been to WDW 3 times before and are trying not to duplicate any place we have been before. Well we've done a 1900 Park Fair Breakfast before but not the dinner.

I hope to get to know y'all. Anyone else going during our time? Is there a list in this thread? I haven't read it all yet....We are there at the EXACT same time- Dec 4-11th!!!! yeah for travel buddies! we should start a list of travel dates if there isn't one. i'll check.

I totally understand that dilemma! The DBF is pretty much no help either... the only request he made was AKL with a Savanna view. The rest is pretty much up to me! Have you ever stayed at AKL with a Savanna view? I hear it's pretty much AMAZING! I'm so excited about it! Of course, your other options sound good too. I think BLT is gorgeous! I hope to stay there someday myself. Let me know how Mama Melrose is! I'm kinda scared to try it... We'll be trying Le Cellier for the first time too (hopefully)...... can't wait to try the Cheddar Cheese Soup and the Chocolate Moose!! :d

YES! The DBF and I will be there Dec 5-12! Maybe we'll see you around! The only place I've been to on your list is 50's PT for dinner and I thought it was delicious! OMG, the pot roast was to die for! So tender..... I'd love to try Kona (I really want to try TONGA TOAST but I don't think we'll get there this trip).... what other restaurant are you considering while your DD and her fiance go to Teppan Edo?hi there! so we have lots of Le Cellier newbies! i love the cheddar cheese soup and pretzel bread. The entire meal is just fantastic and we had the BEST service ever there. In fact we stopped at the front and asked for a manager so we could let them know how great our server was! i forget his name. The tonga toast is fantastic, actually Kona cafe in general is great. i need to get over there more often!

We haven't decided yet. We have eaten a lot of places on the FW side but have only eaten at Italy and Norway on the WS side. I think France is the closest country to Japan. We could also do Le Cellier or Rose & Crown. Decisions decisions. Any recommendations?France actually has a great lunch option and for a while they were bringing around REMY from Ratatouille- a little animontronic version on a rolling cart and he is under a dish and talks to you. only at lunch apparently- not sure if they still have him or not. The french onion soup was good as were the sandwiches. We've done dinner there as well and it was good. had a great window seat. We also love Le Cellier- it is a must to try at least once. My family loves San Angel Inn for the atmosphere, but i don't care for the food much. I am anxious to see what this new outdoor eatery will bring. apparently they will serve quick service lunch, but sit down dinner, so it might be worth trying the next rennovated outside eatery (especially for a spot for illuminations!).

Hello all!! :wave: Hope you don't mind me joining this thread!!
After much back and forth, we have settled on December 4th-11th, 2010.
We actually booked a bounceback when we were there in February for 35% off of our CBR room! I have wanted to stay there for a long time, and finally just went for it!!!

We have been to WDW in December before (2006), but missed lots of cool things (Osborne Lights, resort decorations). :santa:

Anyone else think it seems like soooo far away?????? (That's the reason for all the back and forth in our dates)

First stay at CBR, First time seeing Osborne Lights and all those great resort decorations!! I'm super excited!! :santa:yeah, another 4-11th!! me too! CBR is nice and they just redid the pool area, so you will enjoy it! the osborne lights are amazing! be sure to avoid them on the weekends though, the locals come in and it is more crowded. it is really crowded also when they first turn them on (dusk). we prefer to wait until near park closing time to visit them. the crowds are much less then and you can really move around easier and take more pics.

[Vickis3js]

Hi Vicki! my DH lets me do all the planning too- although this time i am asking about where he wants to eat and he said Le Cellier and Ohana are musts. the rest he leaves up to me, which is fun, but yeah, can be frustrating too. so are these all new places you are trying then? you will love Le Cellier! i'd like to eventually try each place too, and we keep getting stuck at the same ones. i think the only new place we are doing this time is Teppan Edo.


Yes all the places we have picked are new, except CM but we did breakfast the one time we went there. I know when DH and I went in March by ourselves for our 10th anniversary we did all new places and we loved it so much. We had a blast and actually found some places that we think our kids will love and can't wait to experiance it with them. We did Teppan Edo and we were not overly impressed but we have 2 awesome hibatchi places here that blow Teppen Edo out of the water. But ike I learned a long time ago I will take everyone's reviews with a grain of salt because we have loved what others have hated and hated what others have loved.

[amely]

Hello!

We booked (with a PIN...could not believe that we got one after hearing about them on the DIS boards) for Dec 1-8! We are so excited, and are going to surprise our DD(5) with this trip shortly before we leave.

Does anyone have a planning spreadsheet that they would be willing to share? Or are they posted and I am missing them?

TIA!

Amanda

[exwdwcm]

Hello!

We booked (with a PIN...could not believe that we got one after hearing about them on the DIS boards) for Dec 1-8! We are so excited, and are going to surprise our DD(5) with this trip shortly before we leave.

Does anyone have a planning spreadsheet that they would be willing to share? Or are they posted and I am missing them?

TIA!

Amandasure, i'd be happy to share mine- it is actually in word, but could easily be done in excel too. i just like word better, lol. Here is what it looks like. if you shoot me a PM with your email, i can send it over. :) :wizard: I also do a short 'notes' version of each day, just so i know what time we need to wake up and what time to plan for our midday break. i typically put these on notecards and my mom laminated and put on a keyring for us last trip, since there were 14 of us. made it easy for everyone to know what the plan was and they could meet up or not- but at least they knew the meals that were booked if nothing else.

the green is the evening EMH and orange is the morning EMH- these hours/EMHs are just based on last years etc. I'll update it when the Dec 2010 hours are released, hopefully june 1!

here is how i do our notecards- with this sort of info, usually i have the ADR number next to the meal too- but of course i haven't booked these yet-

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4

6:55am flight departs DFW
10:20am arrive MCO
11:30am to DTD, lunch at Earle
2pm to BLT, check in
4pm head to Epcot
6:45pm Dinner Teppan Edo
9:30pm Illuminations

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5

7:30am head to MK
7:45am Crystal Palace breakfast
9am MK opens
2pm back to BLT for break/swim
5:30pm head to HS
7:30pm fast food dinner
9pm see Osborne lights
11pm HS closes

MONDAY, DECEMBER 6

8:30am head to Epcot
9am Epcot opens
11am lunch around the world/France
2pm break at BLT- nap and swim
5pm dinner in room
5:30pm to MK
7pm Spectromagic
8pm WISHES fireworks
12am park closes

then th spreadsheet

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47a0da32b3127ccef98fe9376f2400000030O08RbtHLVi1B7e fCQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[DenishaT]

[QUOTE=PalmettoPrincess;36204921]I totally understand that dilemma! The DBF is pretty much no help either... the only request he made was AKL with a Savanna view. The rest is pretty much up to me! Have you ever stayed at AKL with a Savanna view? I hear it's pretty much AMAZING! I'm so excited about it! Of course, your other options sound good too. I think BLT is gorgeous! I hope to stay there someday myself. Let me know how Mama Melrose is! I'm kinda scared to try it... We did CRT dinner last trip for my birthday and it was nice. We got a window seat over looking Fantasyland and that was perfect. See if you can request a window seat. I wasn't impressed with the Fairy Godmother-spiel, so I'm glad they changed it to another princess meal. We'll be trying Le Cellier for the first time too (hopefully)...... can't wait to try the Cheddar Cheese Soup and the Chocolate Moose!! :d

LOL!!! This sounds like my b-day trip last year!!! All he said was 'eh, zebras!' so AKL Savanna view it was (which btw is amazing!! There's so much to see when you come 'home' from the parks and there's nothing like waking up in Disney to zebras!). I was left to by Disneyzilla and plan and plan and plan (not like there was anything wrong with dreaming about Disney every day while at work :rolleyes1:cheer2:)

[BrittLeshea]

I'll be there with my BFF from Dec. 13 - Dec. 18, staying at Wilderness Lodge (Courtyard View)

[erikawolf2004]

Hello!

We booked (with a PIN...could not believe that we got one after hearing about them on the DIS boards) for Dec 1-8! We are so excited, and are going to surprise our DD(5) with this trip shortly before we leave.

Does anyone have a planning spreadsheet that they would be willing to share? Or are they posted and I am missing them?

TIA!

Amanda

We will be there the same time with our DD(5), we are staying at the BCR, where are you staying?

Having fun planning:)

[amely]

We are staying the Pop Century. Very, very excited....are you doing BBB?

Amanda

[ajury]

My family and I are doing our third December trip The 4th- 11th. Staying off site. We love all the Christmas happenings at Disney and this year we get to bring our new Granddaughter with us!!! The wait is going to seem endless!!Come on December :cheer2:

[exwdwcm]

Hello friends- I am working on a list of all the dates/hotels everyone is travelling. is the OP still on this thread? If so, they can add the list/info into their post on the first page. Otherwise, it will just have to appear on my post much further back.

i hope to have it finished today, so you can see who else is travelling at the same time in case you want to share pre trip reports or even potentially meet up!!!

[dejeffery]

Does anyone know if they have Fantasmic at the same time they have the Osborne lights? I was just wonderingif we be able to do both the same night, because if we can we are only going to plan for 1 day at Hollywood Studios. We were just there in February and I think that this time we can do the rides we want to do in one day. But I definately want to see Fantasmic again, we all loved it, and we want to see Osborne lights.

[Jessica14]

We are (tentatively) going as well Dec 11-17! I booked us in ASMu in a family suite. We are currently looking for ways to save so we can do it in cash as opposed to credit like we did last time!:scared1: My husband always says we'll go when we get the money, but I really don't want to wait another whole Christmas and that is when I want to go.

I'm very hopeful and have all my ducks in a row as far as where to make the ADRs, car rentals, etc. I think the biggest obstacle is going to be airfare. Southwest has yet to post anything for those dates yet and what I've seen of their regular fares is not very promising. Also, I toy with just using ME, but I don't know if the aggrevation of not getting where I need to be when I want to be there is worth the savings.

Also, I'm hopeful that there will be some discount somewhere along the way. We find it cheaper to not have the meal plan, but hey, if there's a freebie, who am I to turn that down? The PIN I recieved was for August and not our dates, so I was bummed about that.

It would be fun to say hello to everyone!
Jessica

[DenishaT]

Hello friends- I am working on a list of all the dates/hotels everyone is travelling. is the OP still on this thread? If so, they can add the list/info into their post on the first page. Otherwise, it will just have to appear on my post much further back.

i hope to have it finished today, so you can see who else is travelling at the same time in case you want to share pre trip reports or even potentially meet up!!!

I/We are going Dec. 5 - 12 and staying at POP (for now. this of course may change if there's :worship:free dining:worship:)

[Vickis3js]

Does anyone know if they have Fantasmic at the same time they have the Osborne lights? I was just wonderingif we be able to do both the same night, because if we can we are only going to plan for 1 day at Hollywood Studios. We were just there in February and I think that this time we can do the rides we want to do in one day. But I definately want to see Fantasmic again, we all loved it, and we want to see Osborne lights.

I believe Osborne Lights is nightly. Atleast they were when we went in 2008, we didn't do DHS last year so I am not sure. I believe it was from dusk until close that they had the lights on. Its a MUST see. I stood there in tears it was so pretty!

[taylor3297]

I'm very hopeful and have all my ducks in a row as far as where to make the ADRs, car rentals, etc. I think the biggest obstacle is going to be airfare. Southwest has yet to post anything for those dates yet and what I've seen of their regular fares is not very promising. Also, I toy with just using ME, but I don't know if the aggrevation of not getting where I need to be when I want to be there is worth the savings.

Jessica

SW will be posting fares for that time period on June 10th.

[PalmettoPrincess]

Good Morning all! I'm so happy to see more Dis'ers posting on here! I am so excited to go! Having fellow trip mates will definitely help in the meantime though! December seems so far away... the DBF gets annoyed that I'm on here all the time, but who else will share in my excitement? Will you all be wearing LGMH in the parks? I wore one last trip, but I didn't see any others :confused3

exwdwcm - Could we put who has a PTR on the list as well? I think it'd be a good idea to have them all listed in one location... just a suggestion though! Off to visit yours! :goodvibes