Advice for planning 1st trip to WDW

[kelbag]

Hi all, I'd really like some advice on planning my family's holiday if anyone can help. We're a family of 5 in the UK and I'm looking at hopefully staying somewhere that has 2 bedroom suites or apartments (my kids aren't my partners kids so it's a bit awkward for them to be in the same room as us), offers transport to the parks and back and also offers transport to and from the nearest airport (not sure if Orlando and Sanford are one and the same but I can get to either). I don't want to hire a car as I think it's safer for everyone if i stick to driving on the UK side of the road in the UK. I'd prefer to stay at a Disney Hotel but would look at any others with the right options.
Also if anyone in the UK has experience of a particular travel operator that would be good.
Thanks for any help given

 

[LadyShea]

Your best bet is to stay at a Disney property as they have airport transportation as well as on-site transportation to all the parks and other resorts.

Other area hotels offer shuttles to and from the parks, but you would have to really search to find those with airport transfer as well as your other needs.

I would call Disney directly to plan your trip, as they will know which resorts offer suites etc. and might even have suggestions for airfare.

 

[Perditamarie]

You can check into staying at a DVC resort for 2 bedroom accommodations-- they are condo type units that are Disney timeshares. You can rent directly through Disney or rent points from a DVC member, which is usually a good deal. Check out the DVC boards for more info.

You could also consider the cabins at Fort Wilderness, which has a bedroom w/bunks and a full size bed and a pull down murphy bed in the living room, as well as a kitchen area. Staying onsite at these options will give you free shuttle service from the airport (Orlando only....Sanford is further away and Disney does not offer free shuttle from here) as well as transport to the parks and Downtown Disney. Happy planning!

You could also consider renting 2 resort rooms at a Disney value/moderate/deluxe resort or the family suites at All Star Music, depending on your budget.

 

[tanyaandallie]

If you are not going to rent a car, I'd definitely find something on Disney property. Many hotels outside Disney do have a shuttle to the parks, however, they often share with other resorts and don't come around all that often. Getting to and from the parks would be a huge pain without a car if you stay outside wdw.

I would post on the resorts board for suggestions on where to stay. I think one of the value resorts has family suites. Or like someone else said, you can look into a dvc rental that has more than one bedroom. Or just get 2 rooms.

 

[kelbag]

Thanks for the advice everyone, its really appreciated. Just got back from Disneyland Paris and had such a brilliant time I just have to try the real thing.

I have a while before we go as we're waiting until my partner comes back from his tour in Iraq with the british army in about a year before we book it. More chance of saving the money if he isn't eating it lol

I'm just getting excited and starting to plan it now.

 

[DizzyFORDisney]

Here is a Step by Step guide to help you plan your vacation.
http://www.plan-a-magical-vacation.com/disney-vacation-plan.html

Any of the Disney Resorts would be fine - a deluxe, Port Orleans Riverside or two rooms at a moderate or value. You'll have a great time at any one of them.

These forums really do have the best info. Keep coming back- the people here are the best!

Best of luck to you.