ADR Changers - We still don't know what we want for dinner!

[amandaw]

This thread is soooooooooooo me! It took me weeks to decide on the resort... one week Beach Club was perfect after a few moments of love over Yacht Club...then I switched to the Poly...then it was back and forth between revisiting WL or trying AKL...then decided to go a different route and booked a Royal Room at POR. I was booked but still unsure, so I told my girls (trip is a surprise) that a friend was going with her girls and was staying in one of these new Royal Rooms. So, I showed it to them to see what kind of reaction I got. They liked it, but said that if it were them- they'd want to stay where we stayed last trip. After much clarification and asking them what they thought about the other resorts that I'd liked- they still said Contemporary...so I called and rebooked everything with the Contemporary.

Well, once I had that squared away it was time to plan ADRs. It was my first of MANY charts. It took months but I finally whittled it down to the "perfect" plan. Well, that was until I started getting scared about 'Ohana availability on our first night. Come day 180 (last Sunday), I got a decent time, but the damage was done. As soon as my brain started thinking of alternatives (and asking opinions of friends and DH didn't help as they added more suggestions to the mix)- I was all over the place changing things up. It also didn't help that Garden Grill wasn't loaded when I booked- so I booked a back up plan - which got me thinking even more.

Since last Sunday...I have changed the following...

- first night meal is now Cali Grill instead of 'Ohana- just more convenient and felt a little more special way to kick off the trip
- I booked Rose & Crown timed for Illuminations as our Garden Grill back up plan- then decided how much of a nightmare that is so I cxld and booked Via Napoli - then I was reminded of how DH thinks all pizza is created equally (even the really good stuff) and would flip out over the price of their pizzas so I booked Kouzzina - then Garden Grill finally opened up and I booked it, but I started having second thoughts on the time, location, food, and the whole "do we really need another character meal"- so I cxld and rebooked for Biergarten - then I got scared since the last time I ate there it was a menu and I worry about the buffet quality - so I cxld and rebooked for Tutto Italia...and that's where I'm at now
- I canceled our 2nd night meal at 1900 Park Fare and rebooked for 'Ohana since I don't know if I want to deal with crowds exiting MK on a non-EMH night, Cinderella is no longer a fave of either girl, and the mixed reviews on the food scare me. Plus a 7:40p at 'Ohana and plan to just relax on the beach afterwards for Wishes. Of course, there is a part of me that is thinking... I really want to try new things this trip, so maybe I should double back...cxl 'Ohana...and get a later ADR at 1900 PF so we can try that for the first time and then watch Wishes for the first time from the GF dock. DECISIONS!!!!
- I decided to switch around some things with our third day and our last day breakfast. I really want to try Kona this trip but the only place I could work it in was for a late breakfast on day 3 since we have 8am apts at BBB. We had the 8:05a at Crystal Palace on our last day...and while we enjoy it- DH reminded me that we're already getting the pre-park opening experience on our BBB day. Plus he noted that while he likes it, he doesn't love it...so I added a late 1900 Park Fare breakfast on day 3 (my fave character breakfast) and Kona for breakfast on our last day (also thinking of trying to be first family at MK- so we won't be dinged by the CC guar fee if we are lucky enough to be sprinkled w/pixie dust and chosen)
- on top of that- I've tried to perfect a few ADR times- ya know...5 min here 15 min there.

OK- that is all, but I feel like it's a lot for a week. I'm really hoping I can just be happy with this plan. I feel so crazy with all of the booking and rebooking I've done in just a week!

Oh yes - you definitely belong here! Welcome!

It does sound like you've made some good changes. I'm constantly changing times ( even if it is only 5 minutes).

It's so hard picking the "perfect" restaurants, days, times, etc. So, if you've done all of these changes in a week.....how long until the next change?

 

[stitch34]

Wow, since this thread first started, I can't even begin to think how many times have totally switched my ADRs around. Out of the 23 I have for upcoming trip, not a single one of them were one that I booked at 180 days out. Whether tweaking times, or switching entire days around, it's been all over the place!

This is just an example of me making ADRs for a typical trip. I've noted where we have FINALLY decided to eat which day - and next to each all the changes each meal has been through!

Day 1:
Arrival dinner - 1900 Park Fare (has switched over the months from Park Fare to Crystal Palace to Portobello to TRex to WCC... now Park Fare again)

Day 2:
H&Vine breakfast (has switched between that and Ohana and Boma)
50's for lunch (has switched between H&V for lunch, Sci Fi, and now is 50's)
Planet Hollywood for late dinner (just a time switch on that one)

Day 3:
Crystal Palace breakfast (back and forth between which day Ohana and CP)
Via Napoli for lunch (has also been Sci Fi, 50's, possible Beaches & Cream)
Garden Grill dinner (was Trex, was 50's, and Mama Melrose at one time)

Day 4:
Ohana breakfast (back and forth between that and CPal)
Mama Melrose lunch (has been 50's, Sci Fi, possible B&Cream and Via Napoli)
Trex dinner (has been Garden Grill, then TRx, then Portobello, then Trex, then Garden Grill and now finally TRex.)

Day 5:
Tusker breakfast (WOW, actually looking at how old the ADR number is, that actually may have been around since my 180 days!)
Cape May dinner (that's been pretty constant - but did change party size)

Day 6:
Crystal Palace breakfast (has also been Ohana and Kona)
CRT lunch (Has been LTT, Plaza, CRT, Plaza again, back to CRT)
and STILL unsure on that one!
Whispering Canyon dinner (has been a constant, though have changed party size, and have changed our time about 4 times)

Day 7: Boma - maybe. Still not sure - maybe just do food court, or wanted to try out Garden Grove for breakfast. (that's in the past been Ohana, Kona, Cape May, Captain's Grill and possible B&Cream)
Lunch 50's Prime time - (Has been Sci Fi, Captain's Grill, possible B&Cream, thought about Garden Grove for lunch and ESPN)
Dinner Planet Hollywood (I think that just has gone through time changes? nope, was 50's at one point and Mama Melrose)

Day 8: B&Cream (Has been also Capt's Grill and Crystal Palace and who knows what else!)
Dinner Tony's (has been time changed about 3 or 4 times)

Day 9: Capt's Grill (originally was 1900 Park Fare, then Ohana, then Capt's grill, then Boma... then Park Fare again, then Boma again... and back to Capt's Grill)
Lunch Sci Fi (was Playhouse H&V lunch and 50's at some point)
Via Napoli dinner (I think it's been that the whole time - but have changed time from 7:45 to 7:00, back to 7:45, then to 8:30 and settled at 7:45)


A big issue for me is making the schedule flow the smoothest and easiest and things making sense - and figure in relatives joining us for 2 days, a possible friend joining us for dinner one night... fitting in breaks a couple days.... oh, and doing total of 4 resorts (this is typical for us crazy split stays!)

Didn't help I didn't know where I was staying our last 3 nights till just a couple weeks ago - waited forever for AP rates to come out, to only find they were kinda crummy! Had it all worked out, then started looking at AoA stuff and oh, found Visa 15% off and okay, let's squeeze that in - which meant playing with ADRs again.

and yeah, we have favorites... like to eat twice at certain places!

Another issue is there is TONS and TONS availability out there for our trip (it's the end of June we're going)... which is kinda bad, as allows me to play more and tweak stuff!


And JUST booked our November/Thanksgiving time ADRs. phew!
Those actually are pretty set, actually. Had to do it w/o park hopping that trip, and we need MVMCP certain night, need EMH at DHS certain night, our Epcot day is set as meeting someone that day there.... so rest kinda easily fell into place. 24 meals for that trip!

Only issue remaining there.... is Playhouse H&V our first morning or Garden Grove try out - waiting to see if they change up the Playhouse characters there or not - daughter wants Doc McStuffens - IF she ends up showing up there, then H&V it is.
and two other days... Boma, B&Cream, ESPN or Garden Grove - doing late breakfast or early lunch - both of those days unsure yet what we'll do. But at least they either don't require ADRs, or are super easy to get.

And one of our DTDisney nights - not sure if want TRex or try Portobello out.

 

[amandaw]

stitch: WOW! Not only am I in awe of your changes, but I'm also quite impressed that you've been able to keep track of the changes! I can only imagine how hard it is with that many ADRs to figure out. And the split stays! I'm worried about the logistics of us doing 2 resorts this fall (we've never done a split stay before). I can't imagine 4!

Now, you still have a little bit of time before your trip....will there be more changes?

 

[stitch34]

stitch: WOW! Not only am I in awe of your changes, but I'm also quite impressed that you've been able to keep track of the changes! I can only imagine how hard it is with that many ADRs to figure out. And the split stays! I'm worried about the logistics of us doing 2 resorts this fall (we've never done a split stay before). I can't imagine 4!

Now, you still have a little bit of time before your trip....will there be more changes?

LOL, No, I "think" we're good on our changes. But funny, if you read back to one of the first pages in this thread I think I've said that before! Only anticipated possible change is where to eat breakfast on one day - really can decide that the night before - and gotta decide CRT lunch or forget about it. Need to see what the current menu really is!

It is a bit tricky to figure out our schedule with the split stays and fitting in all these meals, some places doing twice (via, Cpalace breakfast, Planet Hollywood and 50's are all being done twice) - which makes it even tougher to fit the rest of the restaurants in, and find room to always try one new restaurant, at least.
Really is a huge puzzle making everything flow - and also in a way where our nicer resorts that are only there one-day - that we have ample pool time and hang out at resort time figured in there.... and then making sure we get X amount of hours at each park - and DHS have to hit 5 of our days - at least for half a day sometimes, as is favorite park... and figuring out EMH and parade/fireworks schedules... and then fitting in 2 relatives that join us for a couple days.. guessing which days they will be with us and making ADRs to include them - and making sure to have more reasonable priced restaurants those days. phew!!!

But then I start looking at schedule and say eh, that 3:00 at 50's... if move it to 2:30 then have more time for this or that, or breaks up space between meals better..... or oh, want to see AI in DHS and should be at such and such time... move this dining reservation to X time so we can eat right after AI. Stupid stuff changing around! Really makes it hard when don't know exactly WHAT resorts staying at - hated waiting around for those AP rates to come out - just to find back to square one as they were lousy!



TiggerTrigger - you cracked me up with your deciding on a resort! I have sooo been there! That's why we do split stays - just can't decide!

Pop and Movies are our first resorts and sentimental to us (and more in our budget) so we have to do both... just wouldn't be staying at Disney if didn't stay at either of them! Then we needed a night somewhere nice - Was between Poly and BC - but couldn't get decent deal on Poly - and then decided on YC - because we've been to BC twice, and if stay at YC then will have a differently themed room than we are used to at BC.
Original plan was first 2 nights at POFQ - another sentimental favorite... then thought 1 night AKL - but kids said no to that.
Looked into 2 nights at CSR - never stayed before there.
somehow ended up with Pop, Movies... one night YC and one night AoA 'cause I got sucked into seeing cool pictures of it, and decided staying Nemo in a resort that will be fairly empty since only halfway opened yet, and being steps away from zero entry pool, which need for autistic son - eh, fine, switch ADRs again to make THAT work! I switched to AoA within my 45 days out, too.

 

[englishrose47]

My brain is swimmimg from all these changes !!I do my planning before the 180 days, and that's when I swing back and forth and check park hours etc , then I come up with the game plan and that is usually it !! So far it's worked well !!

 

[stitch34]

See, swore I was done... but today me and kids talking... ADRs would stay the same.. just trying to figure out which resort our last night. Night before is YC - and ideally would just do the last night there ALSo -but yeah, money issue with that one.
Plan was Movies - but now thinking maybe POFQ, we're due to stay there, been a while, lol!
And Movies.... epcot 4th july fireworks our last night.... movies bus stop at epcot is terribly far.... and by time getting out with crowds... AND what if bus stop is FILLED with Brazilian tour groups? Oh, no.. not sure how I want our last night to be leaving a park and waiting for bus. Stayed same time last year at Movies - and yeah, 80% of resort I'd say was tour groups - waited 35 minutes in pouring rain for a cab to leave DHS - as was actually about a three times quicker option that the bus judging by the line for the bus.
So yeah.... see, thinking POFQ last night now.
let the madness end, lol!

 

[amandaw]

My brain is swimmimg from all these changes !!I do my planning before the 180 days, and that's when I swing back and forth and check park hours etc , then I come up with the game plan and that is usually it !! So far it's worked well !!

That's great that you can make a game plan & stick to it. I wish I could do that. Actually, I'm sure my DH wishes I could do that so I wouldn't constantly talk about ADRs.

See, swore I was done... but today me and kids talking... ADRs would stay the same.. just trying to figure out which resort our last night. Night before is YC - and ideally would just do the last night there ALSo -but yeah, money issue with that one.
Plan was Movies - but now thinking maybe POFQ, we're due to stay there, been a while, lol!
And Movies.... epcot 4th july fireworks our last night.... movies bus stop at epcot is terribly far.... and by time getting out with crowds... AND what if bus stop is FILLED with Brazilian tour groups? Oh, no.. not sure how I want our last night to be leaving a park and waiting for bus. Stayed same time last year at Movies - and yeah, 80% of resort I'd say was tour groups - waited 35 minutes in pouring rain for a cab to leave DHS - as was actually about a three times quicker option that the bus judging by the line for the bus.
So yeah.... see, thinking POFQ last night now.
let the madness end, lol!

I knew there'd be some sort of change again. It does sound like a good decision, though.

Soooo....what's the next change?

 

[TiggerTrigger]

Oh yes - you definitely belong here! Welcome!

It does sound like you've made some good changes. I'm constantly changing times ( even if it is only 5 minutes).

It's so hard picking the "perfect" restaurants, days, times, etc. So, if you've done all of these changes in a week.....how long until the next change?

Yup- already changed a few things in the last 24 hrs. I pretty much handed DH my computer with pics and reviews of the food at Garden Grill and Tutto and he voted Garden Grill. Sooooo, that's where we're at now for that. I also bumped up our time for 1900 Park Fare ... still not sure if I should make it even earlier. I even rebooked Tony's and then booked back to my original time. Ya know- had to find enough tip sites stating that the time I was booked in was ideal. It's seriously a sickness, but it's at least easier to do it at this stage of the game. I hate it when I get that urge to change less than 2 months out and I have to go into total stalker mode to feed this addiction!

TiggerTrigger - you cracked me up with your deciding on a resort! I have sooo been there! That's why we do split stays - just can't decide!

Pop and Movies are our first resorts and sentimental to us (and more in our budget) so we have to do both... just wouldn't be staying at Disney if didn't stay at either of them! Then we needed a night somewhere nice - Was between Poly and BC - but couldn't get decent deal on Poly - and then decided on YC - because we've been to BC twice, and if stay at YC then will have a differently themed room than we are used to at BC.
Original plan was first 2 nights at POFQ - another sentimental favorite... then thought 1 night AKL - but kids said no to that.
Looked into 2 nights at CSR - never stayed before there.
somehow ended up with Pop, Movies... one night YC and one night AoA 'cause I got sucked into seeing cool pictures of it, and decided staying Nemo in a resort that will be fairly empty since only halfway opened yet, and being steps away from zero entry pool, which need for autistic son - eh, fine, switch ADRs again to make THAT work! I switched to AoA within my 45 days out, too.

Too funny- this reminds me of the conversations I was having with myself when trying to pick resorts this time around since DH can only take so much of it. At one point I even showed a friend pics of the lobbies of BC and YC and said "which do you see us in more?" I at least helped her book her last trip and she now understands that my obsessive WDW planning insanity can produce an amazing trip to WDW... so she humored me and said we looked like we belonged at Beach Club. I can totally see getting drawn into AoA w/the photos they've been putting out there. I had it on my list for a little while before I talked myself out of it due to more crazy stuff. LOL - now you're making me wonder if I should go back and rethink lodging.

 

[stitch34]

Tigger Trigger - glad I'm not the only one with all this switching around!

Really, my kids... I'll say to them "hey, can i ask you a question...?" and they already start with noooo, not a Disney question again!

Or I'll give them a list of resorts and saying, please check 3 of them in order 1, 2, 3 that you want to stay at them..... and will do the same for dining.... may do a list of bunch of 6 character breakfasts and say okay, check in order of preference which 4 you want to do.
yep, crazy here!

For upcoming thanksgiving trip - again with my oldest - had her decide on our dates.
Option 1 was miss 4 days of school (two of which were only half days).... only one night as an MVMCP option.
versus
option 2 was miss 5 full days - but be there for Christmas parade taping, and have DHS EMH on a night we are there and a couple choices for when doing MVMCP.
She doesn't like missing school - is a great student, and hasn't been an issue in the past missing for her.... but wanted to show her if miss 5 days all the stuff I listed there that makes it more worthwhile and give her the option - She did pick option #2 - and the deal was further sealed when we learned a classmate of hers will also be missing that full week for Disney - so that helps her feel better I guess that she's not the only one getting pulled out of school!

and no... no switching... will stay Movies our last night and just visit POFQ one day on our way from DHS to DTD - the kids need to get their beignet fix there anyway!

But gotta say, they are just like me when it comes to picking resorts - which is the reason why each trip is 3-6 different resorts!

And dining... they have their reasons for different places and must do's. Wanted to ditch Playhouse Dis breakfast - but nope, 9 year old insists she see Oso. For November... want to ditch it again, but crazy 12 year old says we HAVE to do it if by then Doc McStuffins is there (which I'm hoping she's not as I prefer something else!) I have it booked... just in case, though.

They both really want Boma breakfast - not sure why it appeals to them - but can't fit it in this time - well, CAN, if take cab from Pop to Boma, and then Boma to AoA to check in - eh, we'll see.

 

[amandaw]

Yup- already changed a few things in the last 24 hrs. I pretty much handed DH my computer with pics and reviews of the food at Garden Grill and Tutto and he voted Garden Grill. Sooooo, that's where we're at now for that. I also bumped up our time for 1900 Park Fare ... still not sure if I should make it even earlier. I even rebooked Tony's and then booked back to my original time. Ya know- had to find enough tip sites stating that the time I was booked in was ideal. It's seriously a sickness, but it's at least easier to do it at this stage of the game. I hate it when I get that urge to change less than 2 months out and I have to go into total stalker mode to feed this addiction!

Oh yes....I've done stalker mode before! For my son's 1st trip in Dec 2010, I was in stalker mode for an ADR for Mickey's Backyard BBQ. I even got DH to do stalker mode. He called me at 7am from work one day saying he had it but didn't know how to book it. Luckily, I was able to get it. I'm pretty happy with our ADRs for our fall trip but now I'm thinking that the night I booked our 'Ohana dinner isn't the best night for it. Of course, the night I want now is all booked up. Stalker mode here I come!

And dining... they have their reasons for different places and must do's. Wanted to ditch Playhouse Dis breakfast - but nope, 9 year old insists she see Oso. For November... want to ditch it again, but crazy 12 year old says we HAVE to do it if by then Doc McStuffins is there (which I'm hoping she's not as I prefer something else!) I have it booked... just in case, though.

I haven't been roaming the boards too much here lately, just been checking in on my subscribed threads. Are there any rumors out there yet about Doc McStuffins joining the H&V character meal? My son would freak the H-E-double-hockey-sticks out! He loves, loves, loves that show! Today, he had his Handy Manny doll & a Cars flashlight & was playing like he was giving him a checkup. He was even singing the song from the show.

 

[chinarider]

Hi, just checking in..... look at my ticker.... 4 days whoooohoooo. Hopefully the weather will be better next week ( and the following week for the cruise as well). I havent changed any reservations lateley. Figure I will play the breakfasts by ear... I'm just afraid to have too many unused CS meals if I pay OOP for breakfast. We will see. Still sticking with the MM F pkg because I think it will work better than spending the extra time in line at the F show but, from what I understand, I might be spending that time at MM waiting for our table.... Also, I have MM, R & C, Le Cellier 3 days in a row so, that means I might be eating steak 3 days in a row....Nothing wrong with that but, it would have been nicer to spread it out more. We will see, might be in the mood for something else when I'm actually there. Started to pack but dont want things too wrinkled so we will probably leave a lot until Friday .. Hopefully we will be able to sleep Friday night because we need to get up around 3 am to leave for the airport.... I might try and do a review when I get back but I know I will not be taking any pictures ( my daughter would freak out if I tried). There will be enough stress and tension with 7 days straight alone with a 17 year old that I dont need to add to the equation. We are both very excited though as it has been 6 years since our last trip.

 

[amandaw]

Hi, just checking in..... look at my ticker.... 4 days whoooohoooo. Hopefully the weather will be better next week ( and the following week for the cruise as well). I havent changed any reservations lateley. Figure I will play the breakfasts by ear... I'm just afraid to have too many unused CS meals if I pay OOP for breakfast. We will see. Still sticking with the MM F pkg because I think it will work better than spending the extra time in line at the F show but, from what I understand, I might be spending that time at MM waiting for our table.... Also, I have MM, R & C, Le Cellier 3 days in a row so, that means I might be eating steak 3 days in a row....Nothing wrong with that but, it would have been nicer to spread it out more. We will see, might be in the mood for something else when I'm actually there. Started to pack but dont want things too wrinkled so we will probably leave a lot until Friday .. Hopefully we will be able to sleep Friday night because we need to get up around 3 am to leave for the airport.... I might try and do a review when I get back but I know I will not be taking any pictures ( my daughter would freak out if I tried). There will be enough stress and tension with 7 days straight alone with a 17 year old that I dont need to add to the equation. We are both very excited though as it has been 6 years since our last trip.

How exciting!!!

Can't believe your trip is almost here! I'm sure that you & your DD will have a fantastic time! Even if you don't take pics, I would still love to read your dining review. Will you be doing a TR also?

Well, just in case I don't "talk" to you before you leave...........

HAVE A SAFE & MAGICAL VACATION!!!

 

[TiggerTrigger]

Tigger Trigger - glad I'm not the only one with all this switching around!

Really, my kids... I'll say to them "hey, can i ask you a question...?" and they already start with noooo, not a Disney question again!

Or I'll give them a list of resorts and saying, please check 3 of them in order 1, 2, 3 that you want to stay at them..... and will do the same for dining.... may do a list of bunch of 6 character breakfasts and say okay, check in order of preference which 4 you want to do.
yep, crazy here!

For upcoming thanksgiving trip - again with my oldest - had her decide on our dates.
Option 1 was miss 4 days of school (two of which were only half days).... only one night as an MVMCP option.
versus
option 2 was miss 5 full days - but be there for Christmas parade taping, and have DHS EMH on a night we are there and a couple choices for when doing MVMCP.
She doesn't like missing school - is a great student, and hasn't been an issue in the past missing for her.... but wanted to show her if miss 5 days all the stuff I listed there that makes it more worthwhile and give her the option - She did pick option #2 - and the deal was further sealed when we learned a classmate of hers will also be missing that full week for Disney - so that helps her feel better I guess that she's not the only one getting pulled out of school!

and no... no switching... will stay Movies our last night and just visit POFQ one day on our way from DHS to DTD - the kids need to get their beignet fix there anyway!

But gotta say, they are just like me when it comes to picking resorts - which is the reason why each trip is 3-6 different resorts!

And dining... they have their reasons for different places and must do's. Wanted to ditch Playhouse Dis breakfast - but nope, 9 year old insists she see Oso. For November... want to ditch it again, but crazy 12 year old says we HAVE to do it if by then Doc McStuffins is there (which I'm hoping she's not as I prefer something else!) I have it booked... just in case, though.

They both really want Boma breakfast - not sure why it appeals to them - but can't fit it in this time - well, CAN, if take cab from Pop to Boma, and then Boma to AoA to check in - eh, we'll see.

First- I'm envious that you can at least ask your kids. I got the BRILLIANT idea to make this another surprise trip, so I can't get much in the way of feedback from my girls. When I do ask them it's always about a friend or coworker planning a trip who'd like their advice. And then when WDW things do come up in conversation- sometimes one of them will say something that makes me rethink my plans. They'll ask why I'm running to my computer and I'm like...oh, something I forgot...more like mommy is trying to figure out if I should dismantle all of our dining based on one tiny side comment.

Secondly- envious that you can take them out of school. I don't want to do anything crazy excessive...just wishing our state wasn't so darn strict. More than 2 absences in a 6 wk period (and very little is excused) and we can face fines and court time/charges. It makes me nuts!

I think the mult resorts could be fun...I mean, they all feel so different. Although I think my girls are starting to sound like creatures of habit with this area.

I love that H&V breakfast! I was amazed at how much fun Oso was during that meal. I also think my girlies would be insisting we return if Doc McStuffins were added. I wish they had added Jake sooner...DD3 is shifting out of her love for Jake- which was of course at an all time high when we went back in Aug. We've never done Boma for breakfast...just dinner. We probably would have done Boma for breakfast if the girls hadn't said no on staying at AKL. I tried really hard on that one...i.e. waking up and going to sleep w/animals outside their room, but nooooo...we like the bathtubs at the Contemporary. Bathtubs?!?! At least reason #2 from them was a good one...walking to MK.

Oh yes....I've done stalker mode before! For my son's 1st trip in Dec 2010, I was in stalker mode for an ADR for Mickey's Backyard BBQ. I even got DH to do stalker mode. He called me at 7am from work one day saying he had it but didn't know how to book it. Luckily, I was able to get it. I'm pretty happy with our ADRs for our fall trip but now I'm thinking that the night I booked our 'Ohana dinner isn't the best night for it. Of course, the night I want now is all booked up. Stalker mode here I come!

That is tooooo funny! I could not imagine my DH booking anything WDW. I hate to speak badly of the stalker aspect, b/c I think deep down I enjoy it. i.e. it's like treasure hunting and you get that rush when that coveted ADR finally appears after checking time and time again w/nothing. It even makes me happy in stalker mode to see other hard to get ADRs pop up. I mean sure, it's not what I wanted...but if it can pop up...surely what I want could as well. I just tend to get these crazy plans to change things up a month or two out. On our Dec 2010 trip...I decided the first week in November that I wanted a pre-park opening Tusker House breakfast, an 8am ADR at 1900 Park Fare, and 'Ohana dinner. Somehow I got it all in under a month with some heavy duty stalking, but why can't i just be happy with things? Oh well- I fully expect to get this wild urge to change it all up come late August- i.e. just as I'm finalizing BBB & Halloween costumes and just before I start sketching DD3's bday cake...and who knows- if BoG opens up for ADRs, that could really throw a monkey wrench in things.

So, in the last 24 hrs I changed my 1900PF dinner time- again and changed my Cali Grill ADR and then changed it back. Oh, and a good friend jokingly called me a Disney Dining Snob. I clarified for her that it's more of a perfectionist kind of thing.

 

[amandaw]

That is tooooo funny! I could not imagine my DH booking anything WDW. I hate to speak badly of the stalker aspect, b/c I think deep down I enjoy it. i.e. it's like treasure hunting and you get that rush when that coveted ADR finally appears after checking time and time again w/nothing. It even makes me happy in stalker mode to see other hard to get ADRs pop up. I mean sure, it's not what I wanted...but if it can pop up...surely what I want could as well. I just tend to get these crazy plans to change things up a month or two out. On our Dec 2010 trip...I decided the first week in November that I wanted a pre-park opening Tusker House breakfast, an 8am ADR at 1900 Park Fare, and 'Ohana dinner. Somehow I got it all in under a month with some heavy duty stalking, but why can't i just be happy with things? Oh well- I fully expect to get this wild urge to change it all up come late August- i.e. just as I'm finalizing BBB & Halloween costumes and just before I start sketching DD3's bday cake...and who knows- if BoG opens up for ADRs, that could really throw a monkey wrench in things.

So, in the last 24 hrs I changed my 1900PF dinner time- again and changed my Cali Grill ADR and then changed it back. Oh, and a good friend jokingly called me a Disney Dining Snob. I clarified for her that it's more of a perfectionist kind of thing.

I agree....it is a perfectionist thing. And it is kind of exciting when you get your coveted ADR. For our trip this year, I have a total of 7 ADRs. I'm completely happy with 3 of them. 3 others, I'd like to tweak the times by 15 minutes. And I still really want to move our 'Ohana dinner from the Friday night to the Saturday night. So, I'm officially going into stalker mode!

 

[TiggerTrigger]

I agree....it is a perfectionist thing. And it is kind of exciting when you get your coveted ADR. For our trip this year, I have a total of 7 ADRs. I'm completely happy with 3 of them. 3 others, I'd like to tweak the times by 15 minutes. And I still really want to move our 'Ohana dinner from the Friday night to the Saturday night. So, I'm officially going into stalker mode!

I totally understand the whole 15 min thing. There are some ADRs where it really isn't a big deal, while there are others where it can make a world of difference. I think 'Ohana dinner puts me in stalker mode practically every trip. Even though DH told me to nix it for this one...I went through a week w/it in my ADR mix and booked and rebooked it 5 different times for 2 different dates before all of this. At least 'Ohana seems to be one of those where stalkers seem to have a lot of luck. I know it's now pretty much the it spot at WDW, but it also seems to be the one people are most likely to drop or shift around in those last 2 weeks. We currently have 11 ADRs + BBB. I haven't touched a thing in 24 hrs and I'm feeling very good about what we have right now...but there's plenty of time for that to change.

Good luck stalking 'Ohana!!!

 

[chinarider]

Just checking in to say hi!!! You all crack me up. I changed my resorts numerous times (in my head) , only twice with my TA. So far, I'm leaving my ADR's alone ( cant believe its 3 days and I'm gone ). Who knows, we might change them when we're there!!! I still would love to squeeze in some breakfasts and Via but, not sure if either will happen. I will update upon our return...... I'm sure I'm over packing.... I know I will have to do some laundry, probably once at POP and once on the ship but, I'm still overpacking....Bringing a carry on with a 8.50 coffee pot from walmart so, I can make coffee in my room at POP. I will leave it when we leave and that will leave me my carryone for souvenires!!! Tomorrow is nail day, packing day ( except for stuff that will wrinkle), last minute laundry and Friday is half day of work , finish packing and early to bed to be up at 3am Sat morning to get ready to hit the airport. It will be interesting to see how many changes you all have made in the two weeks that I will be gone!!!

 

[TiggerTrigger]

Just checking in to say hi!!! You all crack me up. I changed my resorts numerous times (in my head) , only twice with my TA. So far, I'm leaving my ADR's alone ( cant believe its 3 days and I'm gone ). Who knows, we might change them when we're there!!! I still would love to squeeze in some breakfasts and Via but, not sure if either will happen. I will update upon our return...... I'm sure I'm over packing.... I know I will have to do some laundry, probably once at POP and once on the ship but, I'm still overpacking....Bringing a carry on with a 8.50 coffee pot from walmart so, I can make coffee in my room at POP. I will leave it when we leave and that will leave me my carryone for souvenires!!! Tomorrow is nail day, packing day ( except for stuff that will wrinkle), last minute laundry and Friday is half day of work , finish packing and early to bed to be up at 3am Sat morning to get ready to hit the airport. It will be interesting to see how many changes you all have made in the two weeks that I will be gone!!!

Lots to do!!! But hey...you are at the point where you can say you are mere HOURS from being at WDW! I also know all about overpacking. DH is at least grateful that I have started organizing the kids' outfits in ziplock bags so it's not suitcase explosion upon arrival. Jealous that you are going so soon!!! Can't wait to hear about your trip when you return! Have a great time!

 

[amandaw]

I totally understand the whole 15 min thing. There are some ADRs where it really isn't a big deal, while there are others where it can make a world of difference. I think 'Ohana dinner puts me in stalker mode practically every trip. Even though DH told me to nix it for this one...I went through a week w/it in my ADR mix and booked and rebooked it 5 different times for 2 different dates before all of this. At least 'Ohana seems to be one of those where stalkers seem to have a lot of luck. I know it's now pretty much the it spot at WDW, but it also seems to be the one people are most likely to drop or shift around in those last 2 weeks. We currently have 11 ADRs + BBB. I haven't touched a thing in 24 hrs and I'm feeling very good about what we have right now...but there's plenty of time for that to change.

Good luck stalking 'Ohana!!!

Thanks! This is the 1st time I've ever been able to get a dinner ADR at 'Ohana. My DH has been wanting to try it so I'm happy I was able to get it for him. If I can't change it to the Saturday night, I'll just keep it on the Friday so that we can at least try it out.

Congrats on no changes in 24 hours! How long can you keep it up?

Just checking in to say hi!!! You all crack me up. I changed my resorts numerous times (in my head) , only twice with my TA. So far, I'm leaving my ADR's alone ( cant believe its 3 days and I'm gone ). Who knows, we might change them when we're there!!! I still would love to squeeze in some breakfasts and Via but, not sure if either will happen. I will update upon our return...... I'm sure I'm over packing.... I know I will have to do some laundry, probably once at POP and once on the ship but, I'm still overpacking....Bringing a carry on with a 8.50 coffee pot from walmart so, I can make coffee in my room at POP. I will leave it when we leave and that will leave me my carryone for souvenires!!! Tomorrow is nail day, packing day ( except for stuff that will wrinkle), last minute laundry and Friday is half day of work , finish packing and early to bed to be up at 3am Sat morning to get ready to hit the airport. It will be interesting to see how many changes you all have made in the two weeks that I will be gone!!!

It's almost here!

I always overpack too. I have this fear that something horrible (I don't really know what) will happen & no one will have enough clean underwear.

I can't wait to hear all about your trip! Especially the dining portion and the Fantasy!

 

[stitch34]

wow, REALLY believed truly that I was done switching.

so much for that!

Had AoA for one of our nights - but ya know, just couldn't justify the cost. Will be Pop for 6 nights... really, why not just go over and check out resort and then do it next trip if we like it instead of committing $$$ to it this trip.

So came down to another night at Pop - that would be 7 nights, ohhh, no, too long for us at one resort! Sports was cheapest option - but eh, didn't see need to bother and plus will be filled with tour groups.
So... POFQ it is! One of the kids wanted it, I guess it's been a while so due to stay there, and fits so nicely into our schedule since doing DTD that night and just take the boat now. Just wish AP rate was better than lousy 5% - had to go with AAA rate for 10%. really?

So.... that led to dining. Good news is now can fit in Boma breakfast for sure, so changed our time on that - AND can sleep in as isn't till 10:50 and will sleep and take a quick cab over there!

Okay. I am DONE ..... with THIS trip at least.

Got November pretty set - but really need to go over it. We're out of pocket that trip with TIW - and maybe should try to cut out a couple meals!

 

[amandaw]

wow, REALLY believed truly that I was done switching.

so much for that!

Had AoA for one of our nights - but ya know, just couldn't justify the cost. Will be Pop for 6 nights... really, why not just go over and check out resort and then do it next trip if we like it instead of committing $$$ to it this trip.

So came down to another night at Pop - that would be 7 nights, ohhh, no, too long for us at one resort! Sports was cheapest option - but eh, didn't see need to bother and plus will be filled with tour groups.
So... POFQ it is! One of the kids wanted it, I guess it's been a while so due to stay there, and fits so nicely into our schedule since doing DTD that night and just take the boat now. Just wish AP rate was better than lousy 5% - had to go with AAA rate for 10%. really?

So.... that led to dining. Good news is now can fit in Boma breakfast for sure, so changed our time on that - AND can sleep in as isn't till 10:50 and will sleep and take a quick cab over there!

Okay. I am DONE ..... with THIS trip at least.

Got November pretty set - but really need to go over it. We're out of pocket that trip with TIW - and maybe should try to cut out a couple meals!

That sounds like a wise decision by cutting out AoA. Like you said....you can still visit & see what you think of it.

And POFQ works out nicely for y'all!

So, is this it? No more changes right?!?