10th Anniversary Help Needed

[iteachlit]

I'm looking for a little help from all of you DISers out there. I am contemplating possible anniversary trips for next summer. I would like to surprise my wife, but I'm having trouble deciding. I'm going to list the three options I came up with along with some thoughts on each.

Let me know what you think; I appreciate any input, as this one is stumping me.

1.) A Trip to WDW Comments: We were just there in June, and we plan on going back in 2008 or 2009. The kids (DD7 and DS5) went along this time; this would be an adults-only trip. We honeymooned at the WL in 1997. My fear is that my wife will get an overload of WDW. I'm looking at six nights, especially since we were just there. We like to head to the waterparks or hang out at the pool and then check out the parks at night.

2.) A Trip to DLR Comments: We have never been to DLR or California. I was thinking about the parks for a few days and then a couple of day trips to LA and the beaches. Because we have never been there, I'm a little concerned about missing things or poor planning.

3.) A Cruise out of NYC Comments: We can drive to NYC in just about five hours. I found a six night cruise to the Bahamas and Bermuda on Norwegian for just about what WDW would cost (including flights, food, etc.). I looked into DCL, but it's way too expensive. We have never cruised, and I'm not sure my wife would like it. Also, an outside cabin or a balcony adds to the price; I know she wouldn't like sleeping in a box with no window at all.

The cruise is kind of intriguing to me, but my wife has never mentioned cruising.

WDW is so familiar to me; I know I can surprise her with that trip. In fact, I already have a plan to get her there without suspecting a thing. She loves the WL, and we have some great memories there. I am also considering the Swan (never been) because they offer a great rate of $149/night for teachers. Of course, no dining plan at the Swan. I can figure out the resort stuff later, though.

Where should we go?

 

[jsantini]

I went to DL in 2002 with my family, and then to WDW for the first time about two years later. WDW blew DL away, in my opinion. I enjoyed them both, but I think WDW is a more of a "vacation experience" that really gets you away from everything.

If you just went to WDW with your whole family, maybe it would be fun to do more relaxing things with just your wife and keep the parks a smaller part of the trip, like you suggested.

Cool surprise, whatever you pick. Have fun!

 

[RIDisneyFan]

We went to California a few years ago - stayed with my in-laws in Palm Springs. We bought something called a City Pass. It was good for 3 days at Disneyland, 1 day at Sea World, 1 day at San Diego Zoo, and 1 day at Knott's Berry Farm. It was a very good value. Can't remember how we ordered it - my MIL had sent us a newspaper article about it; you could probably Google it. We had a great time going to all the parks.

I also want on a cruise several years ago on Norwegian Cruise Lines; went to the Carribean. I loved it!! They spoil you rotten - we were waited on hand and foot. I went with a group of friends, and we all loved it.

I think either of these choices would be a lot of fun. The cruise might be a little more romantic though, since this is for your anniversary.

 

[iteachlit]

We bought something called a City Pass. It was good for 3 days at Disneyland, 1 day at Sea World, 1 day at San Diego Zoo, and 1 day at Knott's Berry Farm. It was a very good value.

I saw that on Disney's reservation system. It did look like a good deal.

I also want on a cruise several years ago on Norwegian Cruise Lines; went to the Carribean. I loved it!! They spoil you rotten - we were waited on hand and foot. I went with a group of friends, and we all loved it.

I'm not sure about the spoiling part now. NCL changed some of its ships to use "Freestyle Cruising." You sit by yourself after making reservations at any of the 10 dining choices on board. You don't get the same waitstaff, head waiter, etc. each night.

The cruise might be a little more romantic though, since this is for your anniversary.

This was my thought as well. I'm just concerned that as a rookie I would screw something up.

 

[firsttimemom]

Our 10th is coming up and DH would never plan a trip on his own so you get points from me for what you've done so far!

Would you consider a 3 night DCL cruise and then 3 nights at WDW? That way you get lots of cruise relaxation as well as some grown-up time at the parks. Yes, you mentioned you were just there, but with kids along, it just isn't the same!

Liz

 

[iteachlit]

Our 10th is coming up and DH would never plan a trip on his own so you get points from me for what you've done so far!

Would you consider a 3 night DCL cruise and then 3 nights at WDW? That way you get lots of cruise relaxation as well as some grown-up time at the parks. Yes, you mentioned you were just there, but with kids along, it just isn't the same!

Liz

I looked into that, but it's awfully pricey for the cruise portion. I'm also not sure if 3 nights is enough at WDW. We would probably skip Epcot (other than for dining) and perhaps AK. Hmmmm... I don't know what to do.

 

[BlondeAlligator]

Here is my insight:

1) I have been to DL many times, and I can tell you this. It's more crowded, not as well laid out, smaller and just not as nice overall as WDW. Because it's just sort of plopped in the middle of Anaheim, it attracts the same kind of teenager day crowds that any Six-Flags would. I also think that it ends up not being as clean and WDW because of the crowds, and the overall atmosphere is not as nice because of the city streets that surround the resort.

2) I used to work for the producer of all the entertainment on NCL & Cunard cruise lines. I got to read all of the passenger comment sheets as a part of my job, and I can tell you they were rarely very positive. The food got so-so reviews, the rooms were often described as "small and smelly" & based on all of my expereinces, I would opt out of cruising.

I would surprise her with the WDW trip. If you can swing it, the Grand Floridian is my favorite, I honeymooned there & went back without DD for our 10yr anniv. You could also go back to WL. The grown-up trips are so different from the ones with kids...you can swim, do the water parks, play golf or tennis, go to the spas, stay out late & sleep in, too...dine in the best restaurants without worrying about the ticking time-bomb that is kids at a sit down meal. I LOVE WDW with and without kids, but for very different reasons. Since you know WDW you could easily plan this trip as a total surprise. Don't miss dinner at Victoria & Alberts if you go that route.

Keep us posted...& maybe drop a hint to my DH about surprise anniv. trips! No matter what you do, you'll win the Hubby of the Year!

 

[Gradar1]

A cruise sounds wonderful! But if you think you and your wife would enjoy something else more, go for it! A cruise just sounds, to me at least, so relaxing--if you had a private verandah, go out there for a dinner for just the two of you at sunset--so romantic!

 

[kokomos]

We go to Disney atleast every other year. This past Feb we went in a cruise without the kids WONDERFUL. I love Disney but the cruise was romantic and very relaxing. They usually run specials during the late summer months , im not sure about NCL but if you book with Royal Caribbean and the have a special after you book you can get an onboard credit for the difference.

Im not sure how you could pull off a surprise cruise unless you already have passports that you will need to cruise anywhere next year. I know our cruise for 2 was cheaper than a week at disney for 4 in a value.

Cruise gets my vote, ive never talked to anyone who didnt enjoy one.

Good luck and have fun planning whatever you decide.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Here is my insight:

1) I have been to DL many times, and I can tell you this. It's more crowded, not as well laid out, smaller and just not as nice overall as WDW. Because it's just sort of plopped in the middle of Anaheim, it attracts the same kind of teenager day crowds that any Six-Flags would. I also think that it ends up not being as clean and WDW because of the crowds, and the overall atmosphere is not as nice because of the city streets that surround the resort.

2) I used to work for the producer of all the entertainment on NCL & Cunard cruise lines. I got to read all of the passenger comment sheets as a part of my job, and I can tell you they were rarely very positive. The food got so-so reviews, the rooms were often described as "small and smelly" & based on all of my expereinces, I would opt out of cruising.

I would surprise her with the WDW trip. If you can swing it, the Grand Floridian is my favorite, I honeymooned there & went back without DD for our 10yr anniv. You could also go back to WL. The grown-up trips are so different from the ones with kids...you can swim, do the water parks, play golf or tennis, go to the spas, stay out late & sleep in, too...dine in the best restaurants without worrying about the ticking time-bomb that is kids at a sit down meal. I LOVE WDW with and without kids, but for very different reasons. Since you know WDW you could easily plan this trip as a total surprise. Don't miss dinner at Victoria & Alberts if you go that route.

Keep us posted...& maybe drop a hint to my DH about surprise anniv. trips! No matter what you do, you'll win the Hubby of the Year!

I agree with your recommendation. We're celebrating our 25th at WDW next year, but I tried to put myself in the position of making your 3 choices. DLR just doesn't seem as restful and romantic as WDW. There are more options-maybe a carriage ride, a Breathless Cruise, a couples massage, dinner at AP or CG.

 

[hmp2z]

You could do an intimate vow renewal at the Wilderness Lodge. Disney has some pretty affordable add-on packages for vow renewals.
Cheers!
Heather W

 

[Disney Doll]

Do WDW and do an IllumiNations cruise on the Breathless or one of the pontoon boats, sit on the beach at the WL one evening at watch the Electric water pageant (very romantic in the moonlight ), go out for some nice dinners (maybe the California Grill and then walk over to the MK for "Wishes"). Play some mini-golf, relax by the pool, do one night at Pleasure Island going to all the places you can't go with the kids in tow, rent a boat and cruise Bay Lake and the 7 Seas Lagoon.

Believe me when I tell you, WDW is a very different vacation without kids.

 

[UtahMama]

2.) A Trip to DLR Comments: We have never been to DLR or California. I was thinking about the parks for a few days and then a couple of day trips to LA and the beaches. Because we have never been there, I'm a little concerned about missing things or poor planning.
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I grew up in So. California and have been to DL dozens of times. I've been to the new and improved version only twice. Anaheim is skanky with the exception of the actual Disney owned property. You'll be right at home in DL and Disney Califronia Adventure has so much familiar and new cool stuff too- Like a GREAT rollercoaster and ferris wheel. The Indiana Jones ride is cool and rough like Dinosaur. The PoC and HM are alot better in DL. You can get a great deal at Costco that involves Sea World and Unniversal Studios and the Disney Parks for adults it's like $180.00 which is a killer, fabulous savings...which would also get you to San Diego which is a beautiful city on the coast.

 

[IWISHFORDISNEY]

WDW is way better than DL.

My choice would be a disney cruise with a few days at the parks along with the cruise. Have fun!!!!!

 

[MiknMinMouse]

WDW for an adults only anniversary is wonderful. Hubby took me to WDW for our anniversary a few years ago and we had a blast just the two of us . He also surprised me with an event by Jane from giftsofalifetime.com (that was the highlight of our trip). I definately recommend WDW & a Jane event.

 

[iteachlit]

OK, I think I have elminated DLR as an option. We have done WDW a few times without kids, so I know that it will be great.

I haven't eliminated the cruise, but there is no way I can swing the DCL cruise. It would put me way over budget. I looked at a 3 night on land and 3 night at sea. I checked both Disney's 4+3 package and doing it on my own (3+3) and it just doesn't work out.

I could afford to do three nights at WL and then a 3 day cruise on Carnival out of Port Canaveral. I'm just not super thrilled with the ship's description, it's history (old and used for Hurricane Katrina relief), or the decor on board.

I'm down to three choices:

1.) Six nights at WL with dining plan and seven day PH tickets.

2.) Three nights at WL followed by a Carnival cruise.

3.) Same as above but with a stay at the Swan.

Keep the suggestions coming.

BTW, great advice so far. Thanks so much!

 

[Ratpack]

DH planned our 8th wedding anniversary at WL (which is where we had our honeymoon- first year WL opened). He also surprised me with a wedding vow renewal- so to speak- in a fun way. It was at the Garden Grill at Epcot. The characters were there and Mickey was the best man. A waiter/minister spoke up and we said our "Do's" and had to kiss in front of everyone. We got a little cake to celebrate too. Very cute and fun!

 

[BlondeAlligator]

I still say nix the cruise idea. I know so many people that have done cruises, and I have never known any of them to rave about the experience. Whether or not you have a good time depends on too many variables...weather (can mess with your itinerary), crew, the people you cruise with (esp. at your assigned dining table), where your cabin is (lower decks can be smelly, upper decks can be too noisy because of joggers above you or clubs nearby)...

WDW is a sure thing. I love the idea of a vow renewal; my DH and I plan on doing that very thing someday. You can really make it special by doing things you've never done at WDW before...I'd love to share ideas if you decide to go this route.

Good luck with this decision, and remember, no matter where you go the important thing is that you'll be together!

 

[MiknMinMouse]

I agree to nix the cruise thing. Just stay at WDW. The WL is a wonderful resort for an anniversary. You also might think about going to the California Grille for a special dinner. DH took me there and they did a really nice dessert that said Happy Anniversary for us. I still suggesting looking into the giftsofalifetime as well. That was the best anniversary surprise hubby has ever given me

 

[PaDisneyCouple]

We honeymooned at BC in 1997, and I'm currently working on our 10th in 2007 plans. I like the 6 nights at WL option. It would bring back all those honeymoon memories. You could try a tour. We enjoyed Keys to the Kingdom in 2003. Ate at AP for dinner that night. And don't worry about overload. We've gone every other year since 2001, and planned to skip this year. Then one night DW mentioned how nice a fall getaway to WDW would be. Now we're going to CR for 4 nights this fall.