a trip of full of first times

[shellie may]

So, I'm planning my first ever Disneyland Vacation. Now I am a Disney addict and love all things Disney. I'm a WDW vet and I have been an AP since 2003. Everyone in my family thinks me and my mom are completely nuts because we got to WDW @ least once a week. I've been mentally planning a trip to the Disneyland California mother ship since probably 2008 and now it's finally becoming a reality. My mom and I are going the first weekend of February (Thursday through Monday)and we are staying @ the Paradise Pier Hotel. Now it's not only our first trip to DL but it's my first time on an airplane and first time out of Florida...ever. My mom hasn't been on an airplane since a New York business trip in Sept 2001. So, it's a little daunting planning a trip of firsts. I will take any advice anyone wants to give me Thanks!

 

[M&MGirl1]

As a WDW vet you'll definitely want to check out HydroGuy's amazing Guide to DL for WDW Vets. You can find the link in the DLR Info/Links sticky post. There is tons of other great info for DL first timers in that sticky post as well.

Also, with it being your first time on an airplane and your Mom's first time on a plane since 2001, I would suggest reading through the tips on the TSA's website regarding what can and can't be packed in carry on luggage (particularly their rules about carrying on liquids and gels). If you read through that and make sure you get to the airport with plenty of time ahead of your flight so you don't have to rush getting through security you'll do just fine!

 

[skiingfast]

Here is the DLR guide for WDW vets mentioned above.

Do keep in mind some thing about WDW are the same for DLR. You are going during offseason so expect short hours and major rehabs. FP can be used beyond the return window, and you can get one at most 2 hours after the previous one without waiting for the return window to open.

Lots of the differences are noted in the thread above.

 

[shellie may]

Thanks everyone I've actually read all about HydroGuy's tips before i joined the site lol. I like to be prepared!

The off season thing was more of my mom's idea. I wanted a summer weekday trip she wanted a winter weekday trip....so we compromised and decided on a winter weekend and to make up for the not going in summer my mom said we could go for my 19th birthday. so in a way it's a win-win, but honestly i'll be excited for a change of scenery from WDW.