Any podcast listeners been to Paris?

[Torontogal]

Hi all,
We are planning a trip in July to Paris. We hope to fly to London and do some site seeing - take the Eurostar and then spend 2-3 days at EuroDisney and rent a car and visit the south of France. We are also feeling rather adventurous and thinking of maybe driving to San Remo, Italy and Geneva. Would love to hear from anyone who has done a trip similar to this and hear your feedback. I understand that Disney Paris is nothing compared to WDW but figured we would check it out anyway. Thinking of Sequina Lodge...thanks guys!!

 

[luke]

Howdy!

Obviously being from the UK it's much easier to visit Paris (and DLP) but we've done it many a time, staying in the Sequoia Lodge on our latest occasion over New Years.

Any questions you have, ask away

 

[astrodrummergirl]

Hi all,
We are planning a trip in July to Paris. We hope to fly to London and do some site seeing - take the Eurostar and then spend 2-3 days at EuroDisney and rent a car and visit the south of France. We are also feeling rather adventurous and thinking of maybe driving to San Remo, Italy and Geneva. Would love to hear from anyone who has done a trip similar to this and hear your feedback. I understand that Disney Paris is nothing compared to WDW but figured we would check it out anyway. Thinking of Sequina Lodge...thanks guys!!

Hi, I've been going to Disneyland Paris since the age of 4. I'll warn that it will be busy during July, due to French/English school holidays. 3 Days would probably be a good amount of time to cover both the parks (I generally go for 4, but I like going slow at DLP) and I love the Sequioa Lodge, It's the cheapest with a pool, and is in a nice location, even though you can walk to the parks from any of the on-site Disney hotels.

Hope thats any help

 

[Torontogal]

Thanks Luke. I have a ton of questions! Where do I start??

First off, we plan to use our DVC points for Sequina. Is breakfast included? I was told it is but when I called DVC they don't seem to have any info. on this. Secondly, is there a Magical Express service for Disneyland Paris? We are taking the Eurostar to Disneyland and would love my bags picked up from the train station (Marne La Vallee) and taken to hotel? Will they do this? Is there a charge? I cannot really get an answer from the DVC people.

Is there disability parking in London/Paris? Can I simply bring my parking permit and display it on the window (even if it is a Canadian permit)? Have you rented a vehicle near Disneyland? Have you ever driven to Southern France? Is the London Eye worth it? Any tips on Sequina?

See..I told you....I have lots of questions...

 

[Torontogal]

Hi, I've been going to Disneyland Paris since the age of 4. I'll warn that it will be busy during July, due to French/English school holidays. 3 Days would probably be a good amount of time to cover both the parks (I generally go for 4, but I like going slow at DLP) and I love the Sequioa Lodge, It's the cheapest with a pool, and is in a nice location, even though you can walk to the parks from any of the on-site Disney hotels.

Hope thats any help

Thanks! I am happy to hear that you liked Sequioa!

 

[Gwendolyn]

As a real Disneyland Paris fan, feel hurt when you say that its nothing compared to Walt Disney World.

Disneyland Paris is just completely different. Its truely magical being able to walk from your hotel to the parcs, crossing Disney Village first. The entrance to Disneyland Parc, its far more beautifull and far more magical than any of the simular parcs in the world.

Remember though, europeans are different than Americans. That means that they seem colder than American castmembers. And europeans dont know how to queue. But for me Disneyland Paris was the first disney parc ive ever visited, and to european standards the hospitality and the friendliness of the castmembers is amazing.

So I love Disneyland Paris. And if you can let go of the idea of Walt Disney world, then you will have a wonderfull time

 

[luke]

Thanks Luke. I have a ton of questions! Where do I start??

First off, we plan to use our DVC points for Sequina. Is breakfast included? I was told it is but when I called DVC they don't seem to have any info. on this. Secondly, is there a Magical Express service for Disneyland Paris? We are taking the Eurostar to Disneyland and would love my bags picked up from the train station (Marne La Vallee) and taken to hotel? Will they do this? Is there a charge? I cannot really get an answer from the DVC people.

Is there disability parking in London/Paris? Can I simply bring my parking permit and display it on the window (even if it is a Canadian permit)? Have you rented a vehicle near Disneyland? Have you ever driven to Southern France? Is the London Eye worth it? Any tips on Sequina?

See..I told you....I have lots of questions...

I'm pretty sure every stay at a DLRP hotel includes breakfast - it's a continental buffet including rolls, breads, meats, cheeses, pastries, cereals, yoghurts etc.

There's a luggage express service from the train station, costs depend on if you booked a package through Disney or travel and accomodation separately

http://www.dlrpmagic.com/planning/services/disney-express-luggage-service/

I can't answer the parking permit question, tho I would hate to drive in London anyway

The Sequoia Lodge is possibly our favourite hotel, particularly in winter.
It's about a 15 minute stroll to both parks or there is a free shuttle.
'Montana rooms' are in the main building of the hotel, the rest of the rooms are in smaller lodges around it.

Hope I can be off help as you start your planning

 

[alebisi]

Hi! A year ago I stayed at Hotel L'Elysee Val d'Europe, it wasn't Disney but was an affiliate hotel, which meant we payed less than a Disney Hotel but got free trasportation to Disney, EMH and Disney Tickets. I got trasportation from Charles de Gaulle (airport) to Disney hotels for 17 euros in a "Disney" Bus. You may talk to your travel agent about trasportation, is not like Magical Express that it's free.
I suggest you visit Paris, is a beautiful and really interisting city. We used the metro which was easy, clean for being a metro, and if you buy the one day ticket of Paris transportation you can get any type of transportation (metro, buses) for one day unlimited.
I've been to WDW lots of times and to Disneyland Paris once, a year ago, I must say the are totally different. Disneyland Paris it's smaller so you can visited in 3-4 days (max.).
Tip: The Crush Roller Coaster in the Studios doesn't have a fastpass and can be VERY popular so I suggest is the first thing you do in the morning if you or your family is interested in Roller Coasters.
Another tip, for the photographs with the characters: there's no REAL LINE just a bunch of people trying to get pictures in a sort of circle, so you may consider Restaurants that give you this option so you can get your picture in a relax way. Specially if you aren't with kids getting "in line" to get photos with the characters around the park it's a little bit difficult.
I suggest to dine at "Walt's" it's a restaurant in Maint Street and if you are lucky enough you can get a table next to a window so you can see Main Street in all it's beauty. It's a bit expensive but I think it's totally worth it!

 

[grizbuzz]

I'm an American currently living in Switzerland with my family and have been to DLP twice this year. One time we drove from Zurich area and stayed offsite at the Dream Castle and the second time we took the fast train into Paris and stayed at the Sequoia Lodge. I did not use DVC points because with a family of four it made more sense to buy a Disney package with tickets then to use DVC points and buy length of stay tickets.

We are driving to the South of France next week for Spring break, so I can let you know how that goes later.

A few thoughts:
1. Disneyland Paris is a beautiful park. I love the park entrance and the arcades on Main Street (indoor walkways with shops and exhibits, not video games) . The castle with a fire breathing dragon in the dungeon is awesome. Pirates of the Caribbean is very cool, though backwards in good way. The Haunted Mansion is much creepier and scarier. And Thunder Mountain has its own island! For the Disney geek, there are so many touches that Disneyland Paris has done just right. And our experience with cast members on both trips was only positive. Still doesn't hold a candle to DL in California, but what could...

2. I think that the Sequoia Lodge may be a disappointment if you are expecting a Grand Californian or Wilderness Lodge kind of experience. Price is similar, but the overall lodge doesn't compare. Not eyes up jaws down lobby. Rooms are a bit run down. Service isn't four star (it is a three star hotel): no bell service, no room service and you have to pay for WIFI. There is a nice breakfast buffet included and the walk to the parks isn't bad. If money were no object, I would hands down try Disneyland Hotel. I haven't yet, but really hope to in the future.

3. Disability parking: I think I read somewhere that there is in fact disability parking in Disneyland Paris. However, I must say that Europe in general (and in Paris the city in particular) is more difficult to navigate when it comes to mobility issues. I would definitely recommend doing homework beforehand.

4. Go for it! We have been exploring Europe this year and really loving it. It takes a bit of work and things are very expensive here, but it is so worth it. Good luck planning your trip. Sounds like you have a spirit for adventure!

 

[Cyrano]

Been to DLP many years before visiting WDW for the first time last year.

Lots of folks on the DLP will be happy to help with questions.
The stickies at the top of the board have details about Guest Assistance Card for those with special needs and there is info about hotels, restaurants etc

 

[wishspirit]

Thanks Luke. I have a ton of questions! Where do I start??

First off, we plan to use our DVC points for Sequina. Is breakfast included? I was told it is but when I called DVC they don't seem to have any info. on this. Secondly, is there a Magical Express service for Disneyland Paris? We are taking the Eurostar to Disneyland and would love my bags picked up from the train station (Marne La Vallee) and taken to hotel? Will they do this? Is there a charge? I cannot really get an answer from the DVC people.

Is there disability parking in London/Paris? Can I simply bring my parking permit and display it on the window (even if it is a Canadian permit)? Have you rented a vehicle near Disneyland? Have you ever driven to Southern France? Is the London Eye worth it? Any tips on Sequina?

See..I told you....I have lots of questions...

Hello!

My last trip to Disneyland Paris was in Sept. 2008, but I will help you as much as I can!

All hotels owned by Disneyland Paris have breakfast included (even the cheapest one that I stayed in). Pretty basic continental fare, but as far as I can remember there wasn't anything hot- just cold pastries, rolls, cold meats, yoghurt and cereals.

Magical Express service for Disneyland Paris question:
Disneyland Paris is significantly smaller than Florida, almost everything is within 10 minutes walking distance, however there are also buses provided. You literally walk out of the station and you are in front of the two park entrances and Disney village. We took our own luggage, but I would check with Eurostar to see if any luggage services are available.

Eurostar is fabulous, you go from the new station St Pancras International in London, which is very easy to get to. Then it is only about 2 hours (from my memory) to Disneyland Paris.

Disability parking in London is definitely available, but it is run on a blue badge system. I doubt any parking inspector would allow a foreign parking badge simply because they may not understand it. I personally would not recommend driving in London, I don't like driving in London and I have a licence here. Plus we have something called 'the congestion charge' meaning that in certain parts of London you have to pay £5 a day just to drive around. We have a pretty good public transport system, which might be your best bet unless your disability leaves you unable to climb stairs, then the underground rail system will be difficult for you. However buses are still fairly accessible.

Is the London Eye worth it?
For me, definitely! I really enjoyed being able to see the city and have that experience. It gave me a different perspective. I also went on a lovely sunny day, which really added to my experience. However I warn you, it takes about 30 minutes to get the whole way round, so make sure you use the bathroom before going aboard!

Also remember we have lots of great free museums and places to go. Let me know if you want any more information, I am more than happy to help!

Any tips on Sequina?
To me it looks one of the nicest. The best one is the Disneyland Hotel which looks over Disneyland Paris itself. I stayed at the cheapest, the Santa Fe, which although clean and serviceable, did not have the Disney flair and theming you would expect from a Disney hotel, so was disappointing.

I am happy to help with any questions you may have, plus the Disneyland Paris board is extremely helpful with my planning!

 

[Gwendolyn]

Oh btw if you stay at a Disney resort hotel, then you get free parking. I would not advice to use the car to go from your hotel to the parcs, since the parkinglot of the parcs is even further away from the parcs than the hotel parking lot. And since its just a 7 minute walk from Seqouia Lodge to the parcs.

 

[Gav N Becx]

I can't answer the parking permit question, tho I would hate to drive in London anyway

Heed advice on driving in London. Stay away from the M25 - it confuses the heck outta tourists. I hate it myself.
Trains are easier but then I don't rate our public transport.
Just walk instead, it'll keep you fit. Only a few miles....

WRT Paris, my only advice is to expect higher prices for food, beverages etc
It is different enough to enjoy for 3 - 4 days. Certainly don't need to spend any longer than that at DLP imo.

If you like coasters, Crush's Coaster is a good laugh. I lost my hearing for a few days after I took Becx on it last time.
You'll have a blast!

 

[denise]

We are going to be there for a week at the end of June to July 4th before we go to Dover and board the magic. We are not staying on property this time. We are staying at Marriott's timeshare (traded points for our stay)

What days will you be there?

When we went back in 1996 we stayed at Hotel New York. It was so nice. We just walked to the park. Getting to the UK on the train was a breeze even with luggage and a then 6 year old. We took the trains into Paris to see the sites as well. Very easy. We did save lots of money on dinner each night there. Our DD would fall asleep in our laps at dinner every night, right before she ordered. However she was starving each morning! Good thing breakfast was free!!!

This time we WILL go to the top of the tower for sure. It was hard to talk our 6 year old into it so we only went to the second level.
Oh, I remember Space Mountain being very cool too.

We were going to do just 2 days but after reading all the posts looks like 3 days will be better.

 

[siouxi31]

You may want to check out google maps and take a look at the satellite view of Disneyland Paris. It would help to put everything in perspective as to how it's all walking distance between the parks, hotels and downtown Disney area.

I stayed at the Hotel Cheyenne in July 2008 but did make it a point to check out the other hotels by looking in their lobbies, having a drink at a bar and trying to view the pool.

Sequoia lodge was quite nice and the location was good too. None of the hotels are equal to the grand lobbies found in WDW or Disneyland. They're just, well, different.

My TV remote was secured to the night stand with a cord, I had no wash cloth (I'm not sure if it was an oversight or intended as I never checked into it), I had to drag my own luggage from the lobby over to my hotel room. Oh, and can I mention the embarrassment at how a European family can pack a family of four into one suitcase yet I had 2 plus a laptop case for my two week trip? I was wishing I had that same laid back attitude and would have just washed out an outfit in the sink every other day.

As an earlier poster mentioned, I too would love to stay at the Disneyland hotel. The feel of the hotel inside as well as the proximity to the park entrance were definitely enticing.

As an American in Europe, my frustrations were with the air conditioning not being as cold as I'm used to and the queue being different. While you stand in the wide queues for rides, it is nothing for people around you to start passing you up if you leave any bit of space between you and the person in front of you. I had a really hard time just letting go and being European in Europe. The queue was one of the most frustrating things to get used to so hopefully my fair warning will help you to be able to just enjoy it.

I kept telling myself not to compare it to any other Disney property which helped me to see the charm and beauty of what it had to offer. The castle is amazing and I loved Crush's Coaster!

Enjoy your trip.

 

[siouxi31]

I forgot to add that if you do use their Magical Express service from the airport to the hotel, there is a charge. Unfortunately, I can't remember what the charge was--maybe 20.00 USD? You pay the driver.

 

[Torontogal]

Thank you guys! You are all such a helpful bunch. I will reply when I have a moment....

 

[Torontogal]

You may want to check out google maps and take a look at the satellite view of Disneyland Paris. It would help to put everything in perspective as to how it's all walking distance between the parks, hotels and downtown Disney area.

I stayed at the Hotel Cheyenne in July 2008 but did make it a point to check out the other hotels by looking in their lobbies, having a drink at a bar and trying to view the pool.

Sequoia lodge was quite nice and the location was good too. None of the hotels are equal to the grand lobbies found in WDW or Disneyland. They're just, well, different.

My TV remote was secured to the night stand with a cord, I had no wash cloth (I'm not sure if it was an oversight or intended as I never checked into it), I had to drag my own luggage from the lobby over to my hotel room. Oh, and can I mention the embarrassment at how a European family can pack a family of four into one suitcase yet I had 2 plus a laptop case for my two week trip? I was wishing I had that same laid back attitude and would have just washed out an outfit in the sink every other day.

As an earlier poster mentioned, I too would love to stay at the Disneyland hotel. The feel of the hotel inside as well as the proximity to the park entrance were definitely enticing.

As an American in Europe, my frustrations were with the air conditioning not being as cold as I'm used to and the queue being different. While you stand in the wide queues for rides, it is nothing for people around you to start passing you up if you leave any bit of space between you and the person in front of you. I had a really hard time just letting go and being European in Europe. The queue was one of the most frustrating things to get used to so hopefully my fair warning will help you to be able to just enjoy it.

I kept telling myself not to compare it to any other Disney property which helped me to see the charm and beauty of what it had to offer. The castle is amazing and I loved Crush's Coaster!

Enjoy your trip.

Thank you - I will keep that in mind re: the queues. I agree. One should not compare Disneyland Paris and WDW. I am certain I will see the unique charm ParisDisney has to offer - great point!!

 

[Torontogal]

What days will you be there?

. .

Hi Denise - we will be there the 1st week of July. Not sure exact dates since we are still in planning stages.

 

[Torontogal]

Heed advice on driving in London. Stay away from the M25 - it confuses the heck outta tourists. I hate it myself.
Trains are easier but then I don't rate our public transport.
Just walk instead, it'll keep you fit. Only a few miles....

WRT Paris, my only advice is to expect higher prices for food, beverages etc
It is different enough to enjoy for 3 - 4 days. Certainly don't need to spend any longer than that at DLP imo.

If you like coasters, Crush's Coaster is a good laugh. I lost my hearing for a few days after I took Becx on it last time.
You'll have a blast!

Thanks! I am so excited to see London too! The tube (subway) system is beyond amazing according to the travel guides I am seeing!