1st timer needs advice??

[nickandtl]

We are a family of four finally taking the plunge into a disney vacation next year. We went there for our honeymoon in 91 but stayed in Kissimmee. This time we would really like to stay on site. I need all you veterans to give me suggestions, please!!!! Its so overwhelming, there are so many choices and things to decide on. Any help you can give me regarding the parks, the resorts and the airfare would be greatly helpful!! I think we are planning an August 2002 trip. (Plenty of time to save!!) Our kids will be 9 and 5 then. Thanks so much for your help!!!!!
Terri

Terri L. Bogden

 

[Dagny]

First, let me welcome you to the DIS & Budget Board! We are glad to have you here

Planning a trip to WDW can seem overwhelming, but personally I enjoy the planning phase!

First, I recommend deciding how much $$ you want to spend. You didn't mention how many days you would spending in the world - so decide upfront the maximum amount of $$ you are willing to spend.

Staying onsite, in my opinion, really adds to your overall Disney experience. I have stayed at 6 of the Disney hotels and loved each of them for different reasons. Disney divides their resorts into three basic categories: Value, Moderate and Deluxe Resorts. Depending on how much you want to spend per night can help you determine which resort type is best for you. Rates vary at different times of the year and there are ways to save $$ from the quotes price - Disney Club, Annual Pass, specials/promotions - this information is readily available on this board Click here to get a description of the different resorts and for "rack rate" resort calculator. You can also visit the WDW website for information.

Each resort has a different theme with different ammenities so that may also help you decide which resort would be best for you

Depending on your length of stay will decide what ticket option is best for your family. You can find current ticket options and pricing by clicking here

Our experts here are great about posting information regarding great airfare and promotions rental cars. Since your trip is over a year away you have plenty of time to research and plan those items

The Theme Parks & Strategies Board can help you with your touring plans for the four major WDW parks as well as the Water Parks and other attractions!

I hope this helps a bit. Feel free to ask any questions - our experts are here to help you in any way we can

<font color=red><font size=3.5>Dagny
<FONT size=3> <ITALICS> Co-Host, Budget Board &
One of the Beth's (the one incognito) moderating the Rewards Board
www.dreamstour.com
Want DIS Merchandise? Click Here

 

[HenryMom]

Hi Terri --

I too, am an overwhelmed researcher at this point, but I'm so happy I've found these boards! We are planning our first trip for May 19 - 24.

I found a thread on the Resorts Board titled "Walk Me Thur This" by LitlMac that was helpful to me. Some good tips for getting started on the whole planning process. Here's the link:
http://wdwinfo.infopop.net/OpenTopic/page?q=Y&a=tpc&s=40009993&f=15009194&m=8800967511

Hope this helps!

~HenryMom

P.S. Whee -- this is my first ever post where I got to ANSWER a question -- all I've been doing is asking, asking, asking! LOL

 

[suevee]

Once you have decided on the money and the length of time - check out the swan and dolphin. they are on WDW property and have the same benefits (ee and e night). They also have discounts in the entertainment books. have fun!!

suevee