ADR for solo travelers

[Disney_Jill]

I am sooo ready to go on another solo trip! I have been on 2- one for 5 days and one for 3 days. Both were amazing! It is just really relaxing and so much fun. My first trip I finally watched all the movies at Epcot and just wandered around and people watched. I wasn't rushing from ride to ride. Nobody gave me any grief, one mom I met was envious as her family was driving her crazy. LOL I met some interesting people but the rest of the time was wonderful solitude!
I love being alone and its a fairly rare treat.
I am trying to figure out a time for me to take a short get away.

 

[Random Ninja]

I have a florida resident seasonal pass for WDW and end up going solo about once a month. The CMs are usually very nice about solos although I do get some odd remarks from other guests every time I go. The most common one I get is "So, where are your parents?" Sometimes the CMs ask too, especially if I'm there late. I'm in my late 20s but I often get mistaken for a 15/16yo. I've learned to live with it and am just really happy that I finally look old enough to drive. (2 years ago people were still asking when I was going to start high school.)

Just have fun with it. Disney world is for kids of all ages. Going bu yourself means that you get to do what you want to do. If that means waiting an hour for Dumbo, taking three hours to shop in the department store in Japan, or getting an autograph from every character in the park-do it. Your trip=whatever you want to do.

 

[NJDiva]

I went to Disneyland solo for the first time in Feb. I enjoyed it so much I bought an annual pass, have 3 more DL trips planned (1 my parents might come) and a solo trip to WDW.

I can't remember anyone saying anything negative. Maybe I was asked twice when I dined at a resturaunt, but I walked up without a ressie so maybe they were just making sure?

I never felt out of place or looked at weird. Maybe because in DL they are used to singles because so many CA residents have annual passes and come weekly?

I am still going to be fearless when I go to WDW. I know I am going to have a great time and if someone makes a comment, its their narrow minded problem not mine.

most people don't even pay attention to you when you are traveling solo. they are so wrapped up in their fun you presence isn't even noticed. and when people find out you are traveling solo, many are envious because you can do as you wish (ask the parents with a ton of kids!). it's not to say they aren't having fun but it's a different fun, when you go solo it's all about your fun and magic, when you travel with others, you have to think about their fun as well, and sometimes that makes it hard to relax and enjoy yourself. most CM's will come and chat with you more often (especially if you are at the bar) but for the most part, the parks are a comfortable place for solo travelers.

 

[MyMuse]

I've gone solo a few times (more often than that my BFF that moved to FL will join me or local friends that I've made), but when I'm by myself, it really depends on the CM that says something or not.

Newer (mayhaps younger?) CMs that don't really get into the training seem to be the ones that insert foot. The ones that try to live up to the magic motto will always try to make you feel comfortable.

If you do send a letter and you should, if you feel!, also make sure to take note of the CMs who do make you comfortable!

 

[roryc]

I would laugh it off...the CM was just not thinking, but that doesn't mean that she really meant any harm. Just kind of thoughtless...in your case she wasn't thinking.

Use going solo to your advantage! This is my experience...

I have 3 pretty young children (2, 6 and 10) who have been to Disney almost every year of their lives; sometimes twice, so they are very fortunate.

But I have been to WDW 3 times now solo. I feel a little guilty, but I LOVE to do Disney by myself, and it's not like the children don't get to go to Disney ever either.

But it's always because I have a business trip and usually extend it by a day. I have done all 4 parks in one day, plus a trip to the GF spa, the pool and eaten meals. So I wouldn't say I'm much about relaxing.

I know you're going this month, so enjoy! I always do.

I just love to go and decide what I want to do. Nobody is too tired, or too scared, or not tall enough, or too tall, or wants to do something else. It's very fun to just do your own thing.

Of course the one time I saw a real star, I was by myself, and that was sort of a downer not to be able to talk to anyone I knew standing around me. But it was still pretty cool to see Uma Thurman and her children get on Splash Mountain. (She was gorgeous in person; not like other stars I've seen at airports or on the street, that look as terrible as I do most days.)

I think all 3 times I have dined at California Grill at the sushi chef's table and it totally gives me something to do/see. I also usually have lots of attention by the staff and I really enjoy getting to see the show. That would not be possible with my husband and 3 children. You just get a different experience if you can go solo.

You can generally get into any restaurant if you're willing to wait. I've never been turned away to any restaurant including CaliGrill, Ohanas, and Narcoosees. Now I haven't ever tried to do it at CRT. You might be out of luck there.

I have also been really lucky on check-in when I'm solo because I say I'm just by myself so the room doesn't matter, but if you could get me near the X,Y, or Z being that elevators, pool, buses...they will generally go out of their way to hook you up.

Last year, At Bay Lake Towers, I had the most gorgeous fireworks view that I enjoyed by myself in its entirety with a glass of wine in hand. Ahhhh.

I had my picture taken one time by a photopass photographer and they were very nice and told me I was probably having the time of my life.

 

[kgoodb00]

I would laugh it off...the CM was just not thinking, but that doesn't mean that she really meant any harm. Just kind of thoughtless...in your case she wasn't thinking.

Use going solo to your advantage! This is my experience...

I have 3 pretty young children (2, 6 and 10) who have been to Disney almost every year of their lives; sometimes twice, so they are very fortunate.

But I have been to WDW 3 times now solo. I feel a little guilty, but I LOVE to do Disney by myself, and it's not like the children don't get to go to Disney ever either.

But it's always because I have a business trip and usually extend it by a day. I have done all 4 parks in one day, plus a trip to the GF spa, the pool and eaten meals. So I wouldn't say I'm much about relaxing.

I know you're going this month, so enjoy! I always do.

I just love to go and decide what I want to do. Nobody is too tired, or too scared, or not tall enough, or too tall, or wants to do something else. It's very fun to just do your own thing.

Of course the one time I saw a real star, I was by myself, and that was sort of a downer not to be able to talk to anyone I knew standing around me. But it was still pretty cool to see Uma Thurman and her children get on Splash Mountain. (She was gorgeous in person; not like other stars I've seen at airports or on the street, that look as terrible as I do most days.)

I think all 3 times I have dined at California Grill at the sushi chef's table and it totally gives me something to do/see. I also usually have lots of attention by the staff and I really enjoy getting to see the show. That would not be possible with my husband and 3 children. You just get a different experience if you can go solo.

You can generally get into any restaurant if you're willing to wait. I've never been turned away to any restaurant including CaliGrill, Ohanas, and Narcoosees. Now I haven't ever tried to do it at CRT. You might be out of luck there.

I have also been really lucky on check-in when I'm solo because I say I'm just by myself so the room doesn't matter, but if you could get me near the X,Y, or Z being that elevators, pool, buses...they will generally go out of their way to hook you up.

Last year, At Bay Lake Towers, I had the most gorgeous fireworks view that I enjoyed by myself in its entirety with a glass of wine in hand. Ahhhh.

I had my picture taken one time by a photopass photographer and they were very nice and told me I was probably having the time of my life.

Thanks for all the nice advice! You have no clue how your post just made my day better! I am kind of already getting the pre-trip jitters...like what did I get myself into?!?! Lol I am very excited tho! Only 13 more days!!

 

[goofy_joe]

The only park sit-down restaurant I've done solo is Tokyo Dining in Epcot. I was set to fly home later that day, so I made a lunch reservation right when they opened. They had this elaborate opening ceremony with chants, bows, and everything, and my waitress was incredibly friendly. She even asked me about where in Boston she could go to shop! (I'm not much of a shopper myself, but it was nice to have that extra bit of interaction.)

 

[keahgirl8]

I've been solo to both Disneyland and WDW. It is so relaxing and a lot of fun! I have never had a castmember make any negative comments. Sometimes I get that from people at home, but it usually turns out that they are insecure about traveling alone. It takes a confident person to do what you're doing, so be proud and have fun!

 

[BelleBriarRose]

There's a very good chance that my first trip to WDW ever will be a solo one. No shame!

 

[keahgirl8]

There's a very good chance that my first trip to WDW ever will be a solo one. No shame!

Awesome! My first two (and only) trips were solo.

 

[Disney_Alli]

I had one "interesting" experience being solo at WDW and trying to check in for my lunch with the princesses - the hostess wouldn't let me check in without 'my whole party present' when she finally stopped yammering about that I told her I was my 'whole party' and had a reservation for one. That stopped her for a second and I continued on with my fabulous day.
At Disneyland solo I talked to a lot of people - including cast members - who were surprised I was solo and expressed some doubt (especially since it was a birthday trip) but my standard answer was 'who wouldn't want to do EXACTLY what they want at Disneyland EXACTLY when they want to do it for their birthday?' and soon they all thought I was a genius!

 

[BelleBriarRose]

'who wouldn't want to do EXACTLY what they want at Disneyland EXACTLY when they want to do it for their birthday?'

Truer words have never been spoken.

 

[dandydad12]

I find that I have much more fun alone not to say I did not nor enjoy the company of my family . I have been taking the kids every year since 1998 and even took the ex on two of our vacations . We had lots of fun but what
I did not like was waiting for someone to make up their minds about what to do next .
I do sometimes get questioned by a CM and even sometimes guest and my standard answer is I am free to do as I like , go golfing without feeling guilty and go to the resturants of my choice when I want to go . Go to the parks when I like and relax when I choose to . The surprising thing is after explaining my reasons may of the people say that they wish they could do it . Sometimes you need to take time for you and thats OK . Just think of this the next time you think some one is laughing they will all be sitting around waiting for people to decide what to do next and it probably is something you really did not want to do . And when someone asks you what you are going to do , your response should be what ever I want , when I want , How long I want . I never feel guilty about going alone . Next year I will be taking my GD for her first trip with my DS and DDIL . And as they say at the kingdom have a magical day and enjoy your vacations one and all .

 

[kgoodb00]

I am so very excited to go in only 10 days! I will let you all know how everything went with my ADR's and my whole stay.

Besides that one negative comment from the CM, all the rest of them have been absolutely fabulous every time I call. Today I called to put in my room requests and the CM that answered was awesome. He had an Austrailian accent and was so nice and excited for me to be going! I love when they ask when the last time I visited was and then they say "well, welcome home"

The real negative comments I get come from friends, co-workers, and family. They don't get it. They think I am a loner and weird. But I just tell them I need it and I am very excited to do whatever I want. Thankfully my best friends completely understand (I guess thats why they are my best friends! lol) I have noticed that some people who say negative comments do it because they either don't have the courage to go somewhere by themselves, or they just don't understand Disney the way we all do!

Thanks to everyone for giving me positive experiences to get excited about. It seems like everyone has had an amazing time by themselves and I am sure that I will too!!!

 

[ScottFL82]

I am excited for you! I hope you have a great time! What park are you planning on spending the most time in? I am going on a solo trip next month, and I am very much looking forward to it! My favorite park is Epcot, and I will prob spend the most amount of time in that park. I am a single guy, and I always feel like I get less "questionable" looks from people when I am in Epcot than when I am in the MK. I still always have a great time and never let what other people think effect my trip. Have a great time!!

 

[kgoodb00]

I am excited for you! I hope you have a great time! What park are you planning on spending the most time in? I am going on a solo trip next month, and I am very much looking forward to it! My favorite park is Epcot, and I will prob spend the most amount of time in that park. I am a single guy, and I always feel like I get less "questionable" looks from people when I am in Epcot than when I am in the MK. I still always have a great time and never let what other people think effect my trip. Have a great time!!

Thanks! I am spending most of my time in Epcot and MK. I will be visiting every park though. I am very excited to be able to stroll around the WS! I have never been able to do that before. And at MK I am very excited to walk around and see all the amazing detail work in everything. I just plan to take my time through everything and soak it all up! Only 8 more days!!!

 

[keahgirl8]

You are going to have a great time! It is so much fun to wander WS solo!

 

[robert72]

this is the third year as a solo traveler after being widowed in 2009 i have never had any problem with the resturants

 

[carverebain]

I kinda wish that the disboards dining search tool had a setting to show all the restaurants that had their own separate bar sections. That way I could setup my ADRs where it would be kind of a middle ground between counter service and table service. Plus, it could be easier meeting new people that way.

 

[annieb727]

I am doing a possible solo trip to WDW in June. I say possible, because it may be me and a couple of my girlfriends. If not (which I can see a couple of them NOT going) then it will be just me, which I am completely fine with. Actually in some ways I might actually prefer going on my own.