A bit rusty at planning.....

[chipndalefan]

I used to be a Disney regular, but had to cut back to save for a deposit for my house, so have not been since 2009.

Now we've been moved in a year we're thinking of Florida for Sept 2015 (2 adults) but I'm rusty at planning.

Is it still best to book DIY or are packages cheaper? Where's the best place for flights and car hire these days? Is on site still the best? Are there any new off site resorts I should know about?

Help!

 

[Elise79]

9 times out of 10 DIY is still a lot cheaper than a package.

Disney are currently offering free dining with a $200 gift card if you are looking to stay onsite.

The main change since 2009 will be the introduction of Disney's My Magic + and the main element to this is the replacement of FP with FP+. You can pre-book 3 FP a day before you arrive. Paper FP tickets in the parks are now gone everything is stored in your "My Disney Experience" (MDE) account online which is accessed via the website or an app.

 

[chmurf]

Is it still best to book DIY or are packages cheaper?

most of the time.

Where's the best place for flights and car hire these days?

I don't think there is a definitive answer (or we wouldn't be shopping around so much )
check prices on kayak, orbitz, and direct with the airlines. It takes time if you want to get the best prices.

Is on site still the best?

It's become really expensive. But in my opinion, being inside the disney bubble is worth it.
But one thing's for sure, you'll have better (bigger) accomodation offsite sometimes for less money.

Are there any new off site resorts I should know about?

offsite, errr I don't know as I don't do offsite.
But onsite, there is Art Of Animation (part 2 of POP Century). It opened September 2012 for the value rooms, and a bit earlier for the suites.

You may want to have a look, but standard room (little mermaid) do not get discounts or FD deal.
It's still worth planning a visit just for the larger than life icons even if you prefer moderates or deluxes

Currently OKW/SSR is at 35% off and Free DDP.

but offsite, I think Bonnet Creek remains a very safe and good bet.

 

[crabbie1]

I have had to try and arrange a trip for some relatives and their priority was universal /Ioa but with 7 in total staying onsite in 3 partys was going to be expensive so I suggested bonnet creek and they booked straight away. It does look fantastic for the money and the added bonus of being inside the world. They are driving so are going to get the fotl passes. Going easter I do not envy them with the new part opening